He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.1 John 4:4 This fact should give you great fortitude when following Jesus. Those born again become God’s children. Even in difficulties, your steps are divinely directed. You do not have to escape or evade problems on your own. The greatness of God always guarantees a straight…
We should love one another.1 John 3:11 The way you love indicates who you follow. Those who meet Jesus will receive a new awareness of God’s number one requirement. “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt. 22:39). Do you love your neighbor as sincerely as you love yourself? Often loving our neighbor means denying ourselves. How have you truly…
“Look, the lamb of God!”John 1:35 John was ready to point out Jesus to anyone in his circle. Do you invite others to see Jesus? The first disciples went from fishermen to “fishers of men” gradually, but started only when John pointed them in the right direction. Our attitudes and actions must declare our commitment to Christ. If you are…
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said.Matthew 4:19 We can never predict when Jesus will call us to change direction. We should not make plans and ask God to bless them. Our plans should prepare us to respond to God’s providence. “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58). In every action, always have a purpose.…
Consider it joy…whenever you face trials.James 1:2 Trials are unavoidable and suffering is inevitable. If you follow Christ, you will face circumstances and conditions that cause suffering. Nevertheless, we must be joyful. Joy should not be confused with happiness or sadness. Both happiness and sadness are earthly emotions based on the environment. Joy is not dependent on circumstances and does…
The world and its desires pass away.1 John 2:17a If you love the world, you will proceed without purpose. Do not live for worldly desires by allowing Jesus to dictate your direction. Instead of craving power, consider serving. Instead of craving position, consider stillness. Instead of craving prosperity, consider selling. Instead of craving pleasure, consider sacrifice. You will find freedom…
Trust in the Lord with all your heart.Proverbs 3:5 God is sovereign. Nothing can escape God’s knowledge or evade God’s power. God is in control working all things out for His glory and our good. Whether you are facing a simple difficulty or a significant disaster, do not get discouraged. The only way to face a crisis is by following…
I will follow you, Lord, but…Luke 9:61 If Jesus calls you to follow, you should not ponder your decision or pursue the advice of others. Make the immediate decision to pursue the path of righteousness. People who are convicted of their sin do not need to be convinced to follow faithfully. A desire to focus forward is an automatic reaction…
Let me first go…Luke 9:59 If you are called to follow Christ, there is nothing to do “first.” When Jesus calls us to follow, we do not get to negotiate the terms. We either make the decision for Christ or not. There is no middle ground; you are either following Jesus or following something else. The consequence of delay could…
Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. Ephesians 5:2 The validity of our witness is verified by what we value. When it comes to discipleship, ministry, and fellowship, Christ followers are either interested or invested. Interested Christians start drifting because they participate when it’s convenient. Invested Christians stay devoted because they see participation as crucial. How…