The Hard Part:
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "if anyone would come after me, he must take up his cross and follow me."
Matthew 16:24
I have always wondered why following is the most difficult part of my relationship with Christ. I suppose part of the problem is in my natural tendency to always want to do something else. By that I mean, my flesh will always desire other things, especially when discipline is required. People follow many other things. Sports, racing, golf and an endless array of interests and hobbies. Actually, about any other thing than do what our Lord commanded; follow me.
What does following Jesus consist of? Not an easy question or one than can be answered in a few paragraphs. But here's a tip: seek the Lord in absolutely everything you do. In every situation and circumstance that life gives you, find where God is in the process. What about Romans 8:28, 29? Are you daily,"being conformed into the image of his Son?" That's the most important part offollowing. Using everything that God allows to come your way, good or bad, and using it to glorify Him as He uses those things to mold, shape and conform you into His image. What a wonderful process! When you decide to enjoy the process rather than fight it and irregardless of your present situation, then you will begin to live what Jesus called the abundant life (John 10:10).
Notice in the verse noted above that Jesus uses the word "if." We always have the liberty to sayno. Many have, and the church is hurting because of it. Whatever your response, the Lord will never say a word, we are free to do exactly what we like. Neither will he plead, but the opportunity is always there, "if ..." It's up to you. Discipleship is always based on our devotion to Jesus Christ. How devoted are you? I bet your friends and neighbors can answer that question. The hardest part-is following.
Dave Grimes
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