Why Commitment Matters

The word “commit” means to pledge, dedicate, and give oneself fully to a purpose. Yet, we live in a world that resists commitment. Many fear making commitments, worried they might miss out on something better. Ironically, the opposite is true—by avoiding commitment, we miss out on the greatest opportunities life has to offer.

As I approach my 6th decade soon, I see looking back that everything that’s great in my life came on the other side of a commitment I have made and kept.

The Bible reminds us: “A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways and should not think he will receive anything from the Lord” (James 1:8). History and experience show that those who accomplish great things do so because they fully commit. Nobody ever went out for a walk and found themselves at the top of Everest. You don’t accidentally achieve greatness; it requires intentional dedication.

The Impact of Commitment in Ministry

I write this blog with church leaders in mind – and hopefully you know that commitment is key to a thriving ministry. The more invested people are in the mission, the more valuable they become to its accomplishment, so why do we shy away from challenging them to deeper commitment?

Jesus calls every follower to a life of devotion, not indecision. Romans 6:13 urges us to “Give yourselves completely to God… for you have been brought back to life, and you want to be tools in the hands of God, used for His good purposes” (LB).

To lead effectively, we must embrace and inspire commitment in three key areas:

1. Commit to Fellowship: Discovering Your Purpose

Many people struggle to find their purpose, but true identity is not found in isolation, it’s forged in relationships. The church is a body, where each part only finds its meaning within the whole (Romans 12:4-5). Just as an ear or eye cannot function when disconnected from the body, we cannot thrive in isolation.

Encourage your congregation to:

• Join a small group where they can build relationships and grow spiritually (we call them Grow Groups at Ivy).
• Discover their spiritual gifts and use them to serve others (right now we are in a series called SHAPE to do just that and people are loving it!)
• Develop accountability with fellow believers to stay strong in their faith journey.

Reflection Questions:

• Are you actively engaged in accountable Christian community, or are you spiritually isolated?
• How can you encourage deeper connections among those you lead?

2. Commit to Service: Living a Life of Significance

There are three levels of living: survival, success, and significance. While success may bring comfort, true fulfillment comes from serving others. Jesus said, “If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will find true life” (Mark 8:35, NLT).

Significance is found in service. Each person has unique talents meant to benefit others. Whether greeting guests, mentoring new believers, or organising outreach, everything the church does matters and people can find fulfilment, fruitfulness and fun by playing a part. Remind your church that there is no insignificant service in God’s kingdom.

Reflection Questions:

• Are you using all your gifts to serve others where you are, or waiting for the perfect opportunity elsewhere?
• How can your church better encourage and equip people for meaningful service?

3. Commit to Mission: Making an Eternal Impact

Do you know your life’s mission? Jesus’ final command was clear: “Go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19-20). God’s mission for history is to build His family, and He invites us to be part of it.

Each of us has unique abilities that can be used for the Gospel—whether in the workplace, through creative arts, or by simply sharing our faith in daily conversations. When we align our purpose with God’s mission, we experience lasting joy nothing else on earth can provide.

Reflection Questions:

• How is your life’s work contributing to God’s mission?
• What steps can you take to be more intentional about making disciples?

Taking Action: How to Cultivate Commitment in Your Church

1. Model Commitment: Your congregation will follow your example. Demonstrate dedication in your personal faith, service, and mission.
2. Create Opportunities: Provide clear pathways for people to connect, serve, and grow within the church.
3. Celebrate Commitment: Recognise and appreciate those who step up in service and leadership.
4. Teach the Benefits: Help people see that commitment leads to a fuller, more impactful life.

Final Encouragement

Our God is a covenant making, promise keeping God. That’s why we should never see commitment as a burden – it’s the pathway to a life of meaning and lasting legacy. When we surrender fully to God, we step into our true calling and make a lasting difference. Church leaders have the incredible privilege of guiding others into this truth.

I know it’s hard at times, but today, will you commit, or recommit? To fellowship, to service, and to mission? Because the commitments you make—make you.