Watch Housefires perform “I Have Decided (Banner)”.

Following Jesus Christ and His Word and commands is a conscious decision. Like any other decision in life, it involves a commitment to hold on even when times are tough and the future appears uncertain.

The choice to follow Christ involves commitment and faith, and Jesus said it must be made continually, even daily. In Luke 9:23, Jesus told his disciples, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”

In “I Have Decided (Banner)” by the Housefires, the musicians sing about their decision to follow Jesus Christ for the rest of their life. 

The song about their choice to follow Christ begins by alerting listeners that their decision is final. They are never turning back to their previous life and way of thinking.

In the song's first half, the singer states many times how committed they are to their decision to follow Christ. He is the only one the musicians will show allegiance to, by raising only His banner and anthem.

“There’s only one banner I’m gonna raise
I have decided
There’s only one anthem I’m gonna say”

The song is short and sweet and only involves a handful of words. However, the song, with its repetitive lyrics, conveys a powerful message. Christ is the one, without question, that they are committed to following. It doesn’t matter how tough life gets; they are completely on board with Jesus.

What a beautiful song!

The name, lyrics and message in the Housefires' song are like the beloved old hymn: “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus.” That hymn also told about the decision and commitment to follow Christ, even when others may not. 

Deuteronomy 5:33 “Go on walking in the way ordered for you by the Lord your God, so that life may be yours and it may be well for you, and your days may be long in the land of your heritage.”