Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. (NIV) Matthew 16:24
“In these days of easy-going Christianity, is it not well to remind ourselves that it really does cost to be a man or woman whom God can use?” (From Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret)
What’s it costing you to follow Jesus? A little less sleep on Saturday night? Fewer invitations to parties? Being misunderstood by friends? Ridicule on the job? Being passed over for a promotion? A few strange stares from others? Your reputation? What’s it really costing you to follow Christ?
The next time you are tempted to think. . . that you can’t handle anymore, remind yourself you can’t! But, He can!. . . I can’t speak up about my faith, remind yourself that He’s speaking up for you in Heaven right now!. . . that this Christian thing isn’t worth it, remind yourself that He thought you were worth it! So much so that He gave up His life for you!
