The fastest kid on my track team was an imposing figure. He was 6 feet tall and weighed 170 lbs. He was absolutely ripped and had thighs like tree trunks. When he ran, he looked like a gazelle. He had all the makings of a top-class sprinter, but there was one thing he lacked: commitment. He missed practices, showed up late for meets and had a hard time finishing workouts. Although he possessed all of the physical tools, he rarely gave his all.

This kid reminds me of the rich young ruler, whose story is found in the New Testament. He was a man who thought he had done everything he needed to get eternal life. But when he asked Jesus, “What do I still lack?” Jesus told him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The young man couldn’t do it. He couldn’t give up all that he had. 

Since then, God has not changed. Jesus wanted total commitment back then, and He still wants total commitment from us today. It is only when we fully surrender ourselves TO Him that we can accomplish anything FOR Him. He has equipped us with many mental, emotional, spiritual and physical tools. In order to maximize all He has given us, however, we must remain committed.