An Honorable Commitment
- Kathy Keenum
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.— Ezekiel 36:26 NKJV
During my time in the Navy, I learned that it has rules and standards that must be followed. These are designed to ensure that departments and divisions operate smoothly. Maintaining loyalty and camaraderie within the division was essential. The military fosters a strong, unified group through a clear chain of command and by adhering to the orders given. The military demands obedience and commitment.
The Unforeseen Impact of Military Life on Personal Independence
As a sailor, I’ve often found that a desire to do things my way has caused tons of trouble. Each time I thought I had a better way, it usually ended in extra duty or a confrontation with the chief or an officer. I was neither required nor coerced to join the military. I volunteered willingly. Coming from a military family, I regarded it as an honor to serve my country. I had a clear idea of what my life in the service would entail. However, the impact it ultimately had on my life was something I did not foresee.
Similarly, I wasn’t required or coerced to begin a relationship with the Lord. Much like going into the Navy, I volunteered. I realized I was a sinner and couldn’t save myself, but I can only be saved through God's grace and Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross to pay for our sins. Commitment and love for the Lord surpass any other commitment in my life, including my dedication to service.
Embracing Faith: Overcoming Stubbornness in My Spiritual Journey
My life was transformed when I became a follower of Christ. What used to be important to me changed. My thoughts and focus began to center on the Lord and the path He had laid out for my life, and I walked in a life committed to following Him in obedience. Still, I have trouble with my stubbornness. There are many times when I resist following God’s plan. These failures cause me hardships.
Ezekiel spoke of instilling 'a new spirit within you'—taking out the heart of stone and replacing it with a heart of flesh. Paul echoed this idea in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” The old self has passed away; the new has arrived!
Guarding Against Resistance to Divine Guidance
Unfortunately, there are times when we remain resistant to the Lord—trying to fight against the path He has laid out for us. Our old self tries to take over. However, we must guard against this attack from the enemy.
When we become Christ followers, the Lord instills in our hearts a desire to obey and please Him. A spirit centered around the Lord fills our thoughts. We’re transformed. We begin a new way of life—one of obedience and commitment—following the Lord’s will. It becomes clear to others that we have experienced a change. As Christ followers, our old, hard hearts are transformed..
Prayer—Lord, please allow my life to bring glory to you. May my life be an example to others, showing that I am a child of the living God. Grant me the wisdom to follow your will and the strength to stand up for my beliefs. Direct my path so that my life may be sensitive and loving, and not a heart of stone. Amen.
Your Turn—Do you have a heart of stone, resisting God’s will? Has the Lord’s grace and love transformed your life? Who are you committed to?
I loved this story. The truth is, all we have to give to the Lord that he hasn't already given us, is our will. We must voluntarily surrender it to God. He doesn't require it or force us into obedience, but the blessings far outweigh the benefits of self-indulgence.