Several years ago, I replaced the traditional New Year’s resolutions with commitments. Commitments give me space for growth, beginning again as I seek to correct errors, constant renewal. Let me suggest four commitments that will make a difference as we seek to live as disciples of Jesus.
I want to be bold. When I read the book of Acts, I admire the courage of the first disciples of Jesus. Church history challenges me when I read about the commitment of those who sought to follow Jesus. I long to understand how to boldly proclaim faith in a hostile world. Why are some Christians bold while others are timid? One must avoid the temptation to a quick fix, but I find four characteristics are essential if I am to be bold. The acrostic is a helpful memory tool.
1. Belief. Boldness depends on a deep, abiding belief in God. We will never be bold until we settle the question of faith. Upon what or whom do you depend? What matters more to you than anything else? What is the foundation of your worldview? What is your beginning point? What are your orienting concepts? What is central in your life? One’s belief system is paramount. Any person (Christian or non-Christian) who is bold has settled the belief question. This is what is worth standing up for. This is what really matters. Our lack of boldness may be due to a lack of faith. Faith is more than intellectual assent to a few truths. Faith controls our actions. Faith is the foundation of life. God is; God rewards diligent seekers.
2. Obedience. The result of faith is obedience. Faith empowers relationships. Boldness depends upon the depth of your relationship with God. What is your attitude toward God? Do you hear him, listen to him, and talk with him? The God of the Bible is a communicating God. He reveals himself. He wants to be known–as he is! The God of Scripture is a personal God. Obedience that comes from duty or from distant, dry words that must be obeyed hardly qualifies as biblical obedience. A pliable, moldable Christian acts out of relationship, believing a faithful God, desiring to please God.
3. Love. Perhaps this goes without saying. Without doubt, a Christian will love God. This truth naturally follows obedience. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Love has a vertical dimension–love for God. Love has a horizontal dimension–love your neighbor. Thinking about horizontal relationships, Christians are called to love others. Be bold for others, for one another. Christian boldness commits to taking the love that has blessed our lives and spreading it in this world. We love others because we have been loved.
4. Discipleship. Here is the capstone. Also, the heart of the matter; an invisible, at times immeasurable aspect of life; an internal question. This is who I am. I have decided. I am willing to dedicate myself. I am determined. I will follow. I am a learner following a teacher. I have decided to follow Jesus. I am set for the defense of the gospel. A whole host of “D” words may come to mind, but the commitment I must constantly remember if I want to be bold is this: I am committed to be a disciple of Jesus.
May God help us grow in our belief, obedience, love, and discipleship. May we be bold as we live transformed lives.