THIS IS TABLE ROCK FELLOWSHIP – PASTOR RYAN LADEN (DEVOTIONALS)
| Commitment Shared Twenty-six years ago today, my wife Amy and I stood before God, our church, our family, and our friends, and proclaimed a truth over one another. We professed our faith in the call of God that had brought the two of us into a real sense of shared purpose that the Bible calls “marriage.” Amy and I were in love, sure. We were young and excitable, yes. But we were also committed to the same principles and purposes for our individual and shared lives. We were both committed to serving the Lord by serving his church, and we both saw that that Lord could and would use us more together than either of us could imagine if we remained apart. Preparation As part of our preparation for this journey of commitment, we sought out the advice and wisdom of our elders. At our local church, there was a course offered for those crazy enough to want to get married, and we took full advantage of all they offered. One of the core teachings that Amy and I were asked to embrace as we sought to build a life of faith together is found below: “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”Ephesians 4:25-5:2 NIV11 Points of Agreement In this passage, there are a number of great principles that, if applied, can and will bring stability, health, and shared purpose into any relationship. These principles can be applied into all of your committed relationships, so long as both parties are in agreement. Consider the following points of agreement for yourself. See if you are willing to say “yes” to these heartfelt commitments before you ask anyone else to consider them as part of your shared commitment to one another: Put off falsehood and speak truthfully· In your anger do not sin· Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry· All must work, doing something useful with their own hands· Everyone must have something to share with those in need· Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths· Speak only what is helpful for building others up· Let your words benefit those who listen· Get rid of all the uncontrolled lusts and reactions rooted in your flesh· Be kind and compassionate to one another· Forgiving each other, just as Christ forgave you· Follow God’s example· Walk in the footsteps of Jesus as he leads you in the way of love Reflection If you are truly interested in building (or re-building) a healthy, committed, God-focused relationship with another believer in Christ, these principles can be used by God to help you establish a solid and strong foundation. Consider meeting with the person you are seeking to build a stronger connection with, and prayerfully working through these shared principles. May the Lord use his Word in your life to bring about health and strength in your most important relationships. In Christ, Ryan Laden |
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