Resolve

Friends,

This week is Holy Week—the time when Jesus lived into his destiny, laid down His life and bought salvation for us all. I recently came across an affirmation of faith that stirred my heart and set my resolve to deny myself, take up my cross daily, and follow after Jesus. This affirmation—which was posted on the wall of his house by a young African pastor—speaks to living a life sold out for God. May it be our testimony as well:     MORE 

"I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of His.

I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.

My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure.

I'm finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap living and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need pre-eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits or popularity.

I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded.

I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, live by prayer and labor by power.

My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way rough, my companions few, my guide reliable, my mission clear.

I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, preached up for the cause of Christ.

I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know and work till He stops me.

And when He comes for His own, He will have no problems recognizing me -- my banner will be clear!"

Now THAT is a person who has some passion and direction about how he wants to live!