Sam Houston was a good friend of President Andrew Jackson. They shared the same desire of Texas independence and admission into the union of the United States. President Jackson looked on Houston as a son and Houston returned the affection. On one occasion, Houston wrote a letter to President Jackson saying,

          “My firm and undeviating attachment to General Jackson has caused me all the enemies I have, and I glory in the firmness of my attachment. I will die proud in the assurance that I deserve, and possess, his perfect confidence.” (Magnificent Destiny, Paul I. Wellman, 1962, page 177).

          How committed are we to Jesus? As committed as Houston was to President Jackson? Could we honestly say that the only enemies we have are because of our attachment to Jesus Christ and His doctrine? Due to this commitment, Houston believed Jackson could have confidence in him. Can Jesus have confidence in us because of our commitment to His truth? Is truth safe in our hands?

          In 2 Samuel 23:13-17, King David was in battle with the Philistines. He laments of his thirst. Hearing that, three mighty men break through the camp of the Philistines, defying death and loving David’s life more than their own, and draw water from a well in Bethlehem to bring it to David. The King actually pours out the water as a drink offering to God.

          How committed are you to Jesus? As committed as King David’s men were to him? Will we stand up for His truth regardless of the cost? Think of Paul’s words in Acts 21:13: “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

          How committed are you to Jesus?

–Paul Holland