Total commitment to God is a foundational concept in Christian theology, emphasizing the complete devotion and dedication of one's life to the service and worship of God. This commitment is characterized by an unwavering allegiance to God's will, commands, and purposes, as revealed in Scripture. It involves the surrender of personal desires and ambitions in favor of God's divine plan.

Biblical Basis

The call for total commitment is evident throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament, the Shema, found in Deuteronomy 6:4-5, serves as a central declaration of faith: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." This passage underscores the necessity of loving God with every aspect of one's being, leaving no room for divided loyalties.

In the New Testament, Jesus reiterates this commandment as the greatest of all: "Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment" (Matthew 22:37-38). Here, Jesus emphasizes that total commitment involves the heart, soul, and mind, indicating a holistic devotion that encompasses emotions, spiritual life, and intellect.

Examples of Total Commitment

Several biblical figures exemplify total commitment to God. Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac (Genesis 22) demonstrates his unwavering faith and obedience. Despite the personal cost, Abraham trusted in God's promises, showcasing a profound level of commitment.

The prophet Daniel also exemplifies total commitment. In Daniel 6, despite the threat of being thrown into the lions' den, Daniel continued to pray to God, prioritizing his relationship with God over his own safety. His steadfastness in the face of persecution highlights the depth of his devotion.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul serves as a model of total commitment. In Philippians 3:7-8, he writes, "But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." Paul's willingness to forsake all worldly gains for the sake of knowing Christ illustrates his complete dedication to God's mission.

The Cost of Commitment

Total commitment to God often involves sacrifice and self-denial. Jesus warns His followers of the cost of discipleship in Luke 9:23: "Then He said to all of them, 'If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.'" This call to self-denial and daily bearing of one's cross signifies the ongoing nature of commitment, requiring believers to continually choose God's will over their own.

In Luke 14:26-27, Jesus further emphasizes the cost: "If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not carry his cross and follow Me cannot be My disciple." This hyperbolic language underscores the priority of allegiance to Christ above all earthly relationships and personal interests.

The Rewards of Commitment

While total commitment to God involves sacrifice, it also promises profound rewards. Jesus assures His followers in Matthew 19:29, "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for My sake will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life." The promise of eternal life and abundant spiritual blessings serves as an encouragement for believers to remain steadfast in their commitment.

Moreover, total commitment leads to a deeper relationship with God, characterized by peace, joy, and fulfillment. In John 15:10-11, Jesus states, "If you keep My commandments, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and remain in His love. I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete." The joy that comes from abiding in Christ and His love is a significant reward for those who commit themselves fully to God.

Conclusion

Total commitment to God is a central tenet of the Christian faith, calling believers to a life of complete devotion and surrender to God's will. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Jesus, Christians are encouraged to prioritize their relationship with God above all else, embracing the sacrifices and rewards that come with such a commitment.