I Have Decided … And Keep Deciding

I have decided to follow Jesus

I have decided to follow Jesus

I have decided to follow Jesus

No turning back, no turning back

When I was a lot younger I heard gatherings of saints belt these words out with gusto. There were other words to the song declaring sole allegiance to Jesus against all opposition both from without and from within. As commitment goes it was a very strong proclamation.

What I went on to witness when the singing stopped, though, was people following many things but not Jesus. Tragically I also witnessed those who sang no turning back one minute, before turning back the next.

There were times when I thought I wouldn’t turn back either. I felt the swell in the heart that meant the song with every fibre of my being. Caught in the moment of overwhelming gratitude for all Jesus did for me, I was sure that I would stick to my decision. Life subsequently taught me that it was never designed to be a one off decision. It is an ongoing decision. It is a daily deciding. It is a commitment made by faith. It’s also a decision I make knowing that even when I am faithless, He remains faithful.

It is about following Him. Often that is put to the test. Often it is a matter of who it is I am really following. Often there is a draw to follow well meaning attractions and projects. Often there are those who give the impression that they have the monopoly on Jesus and following anything else is to stop following Him.

Yet I have decided to follow Jesus. That decision is one I make again and again. It is the best decision I have ever made and will continue to be so as I keep making it and as He keeps leading.

(Photo: Unsplash)

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

C. L. J. Dryden