Commitment Is Overrated…
Commitment is overrated in the evangelical community, just as joy is misunderstood in the world. Commitment is important and it’s the basis of our relationship with God, spouse and our friends, but it is not the goal. Much of today’s preaching on commitment assumes that the goal is to be more committed. It’s not. The goal is enjoying God, family and friends. I have discovered most people are committed to what they enjoy.
The Westminster Shorter Catechism (1674) answers the question, What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him for ever.
So when it comes to our faith, our highest goal is not just more commitment to God, but more enjoyment of God.
John Piper said, “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.”
Yes, we need to be committed. But I know a lot of people who are committed who do not seem to enjoy God and the life He gives. The world will admit they are after happiness and joy. Some even think they can obtain it without commitment, but they can’t. Nor should we be content with commitment without joy. We must go beyond just being committed to God, to enjoying God. We will not have a huge influence on people or see the world changed just because we are committed. It is joy they are looking for and it should be joy they see in us. My desire is to be a joyful committed person.
