November 9, 2023
And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Mark 8:34
It can never be said that Jesus Christ deceptively encouraged His disciples to follow after Him. To the contrary, Jesus challenged them to consider everything before making a decision. The disciples were called upon to willingly sacrifice in order to follow after Him.
- Complete self-denial – they were to renounce confidence in self, whether it was confidence in self-righteousness for salvation or confidence in their own strength to serve. They were to rely completely upon God’s power. Only in God’s power can we accomplish God’s will.
- Conform to Christ – they were to carry their cross, meaning they were to follow His example and bear the burden that comes with service. Jesus was selfless, obedient to God’s will, and willing to suffer for God the Father’s glory. Likewise His believers must yield to God’s direction in their life. They were to seek God’s glory instead of self-interests.
Jesus Christ made it clear to His disciples that serving Him would be difficult, and they might be called upon to suffer for His sake.
It’s good to remember that Jesus never promised a life of ease for those that follow after Him. We must live for God instead of self, we must be willing to obey His commands, and we must expect and endure difficulties while we serve Him. For this to be accomplished one must trust in God and seek after His will.
Although following Christ will be difficult, it’s possible with His strength, and worth it because of His love for us.
Thanks for reading…
Pastor Ramirez