That Day Back in September

I started reading Lou Engle’s book Nazirite DNA again because upon coming home last week, I realized I desired a strengthening in my heart – a reminder of why I do what I do. The last few weeks of school (yes, I have successfully completed my sophomore year of University) were really tough for me. I was breaking down mentally, physically and spiritually. I’m not going to lie – being away from the solid foundations of home are draining; I am usually in need of some good old-fashioned restoration from the fountains of the Lord by the time I come home – which is awesome because it’s exactly what I receive.

Anyway, when I was packing up my stuff at school, I stopped at my bookshelf and was talking to the Lord about what I would like to read over the summer. Asking Him what He had in mind for my heart. I quickly realized that the lack of motivation I was feeling at school in my prayer life and in my ministry was because I had forgotten the reason I was doing it. The flame that dwelled inside of me had not diminished, but it was running low on fuel. The Lord instantly brought my hand to a few books that would help that, most of them new but this one – this is the “old-faithful.”

Almost a year ago now, in September 2011 I made a Nazirite commitment to fast and pray (and not cut my hair) for Valley City State University and this book was a key tool for my decision. Now, a year (ish) later, I have been reminded of who I am as a Nazirite, why I’m giving my life as a sacrifice to the Lord and why I am choosing such a radical way of life – not because of a book, but because I have sat with a book and the Lord Himself and meditated on His heart for me.

This past week, as I’ve been speaking with the Lord, I can feel the passion and zeal for His heart returning to my Spirit. However, I’ve come to another realization, one that was quite sobering to my heart – That day in September 2011, I did not just make a 3 year commitment, I made a lifelong commitment. This Nazirite journey that I have chosen to walk, it will now and forever pulse through my veins. This is a desire that will never be quenched, for once a Nazirite always a Nazirite. I am now, and forever will be a longhaired one.

[Disclaimer: as romantic as that sounds, this is a journey that must not be taken lightly, I suggest taking time to fast and pray about the matter and research a lot. This is a commitment that will push, pull and stretch one to their limits.]