Point of Decision: Am I Committed or Just Excited?
New beginnings are natural occurrences in the life of any growing leader. In the leadership developmental process, systemic change is necessary to consistently moving forward. Possessing both commitment and excitement are foundational qualities which can aid in the launching or sustaining of new ideas.
While commitment and excitement are desirable qualities, distinguishing between commitment and being caught up in the excitement is imperative. To insure success, a “Point of Decision” must accompany every project, exercise routine, diet, business venture, spiritual discipline, or ministry.
We see Jesus delivering a “Point of Decision” discipleship message in Luke 14:25-35. The multitudes were excited about His miracles and the food He multiplied, but now He speaks of discipleship. Three times He ends with the challenge “…cannot be my disciple.” You get the idea He is separating the committed from the excited.
Confronting the four questions in this passage facilitates this concept of a “Point of Decision.” These are decisions for personal consideration as well as for those we are discipling. These are not “one and done” type of questions: they are the kind we revisit on a consistent basis throughout our life or discipleship ministry.
- The Question of our Love – Do we love Him the most? (v. 26)
- The Question of the Cross – Do we trust Him with our lives? (vs. 27-28)
- The Question of Discipline – Are we willing to pay the price of preparation? (vs. 28-32)
- The Question of Cost – Are we willing to give Him everything? (v. 33)
One of the responsibilities we have in leadership is assisting future leaders as they navigate through this process. This is a natural part of every young person’s journey. As I have stated in previous blogs where we are following the 2 Timothy 2:2 model, we will constantly be helping people move through discipleship, which includes decisions like these.
Are you encouraging commitment as a “Point of Decision” for young leaders or simply fanning a flame of temporary excitement?
