January 9, 2012 (Genesis 23-24; Luke 9)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62 NLT
Observation: This verse of scripture speaks directly to the responsibility of commitment we have when accepting Christ as Savior. Putting our hand to the plow we must make Him first and foremost in our lives. Total dedication, not half-hearted commitment is what Jesus requires. Houses, land, money, jobs, and even family are second to Him. He demands to be most important and will accept nothing less. To be eternally secure in Christ, one must put their hand to the plow and never look back or let go, whatever happens.
Application: Half-hearted confession, followed by half-hearted commitment, has become the standard in the church today. Many pastors unknowingly encourage this type commitment by offering salvation free. A salvation free from any cost from the converted whatsoever. A salvation free from any change in lifestyle or attitude. A salvation free from any personal accountability. “Repeat after me this simply prayer and you are good to go”, so they say. But in reality Christ warned us to consider the cost associated with following Him. Putting our hand to the plow we should acknowledge that we are no longer our own, we have been bought with a price. Christ, and only Christ, makes us fit for the Kingdom of God. Commit to Him today, and don’t look back!
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day You’ve made. Bless it and keep it, may Your face shine upon it. Thank You for the commitment required to be a true follower of Christ. Thank You for the standard of holiness You’ve put into place for us to live up to. Thank You for Your Spirit that leads us to understanding Your truth and helps us apply it to our lives. Putting my hand to the plow of the gospel, help me hold on and never look back, whatever happens, in Jesus name, Amen!