WEDNESDAY October 19, 2022 

Be a Persistent Follower

Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”
Matthew 16:24-26

Jesus called people to follow Him. Consider Jesus’ call to His disciples. It is not easy to follow Christ––it is sometimes difficult. The life of self-interest needs to be switched over to a life of self-denial. Every individual must take up their own Cross––the instrument of death to self. 

Jesus’ words cause serious reflection and consideration for life’s pursuits and the value of a person’s eternal soul. To spend a whole lifetime pursuing selfish desires and not Christ has consequences. Wealth and fame, all the world has to offer, cannot be comparable to losing your soul. 

Some of Jesus’ followers found it really hard to understand some of His teachings. Sadly, in the Bible we read: From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more (John 6:66). These disciples were not persistent in following Him. Jesus turned to the Twelve and said: “Do you also want to go away?” (John 6:67). I believe we have much to learn from Peter’s response to Jesus: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (John 6:68-69). 

Knowing Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, who gives to us eternal life should cause us to be persistent followers. Do not be easily dissuaded or discouraged by others who have left following Him. Some may think you are foolish for following Him, but be persistent; do not give up. Even if you fall down––make mistakes, stumble and sin––repent and get back up. 

Think about it. Jesus was persistent in His mission to save us. Be like Him, and no matter what happens, keep moving forward in Christ. 

The way to Heaven is ascending; we must be content to travel uphill, though it be hard and tiresome, and contrary to the natural bias of our flesh.
~Jonathan Edwards~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!