DECISION FOR CHRIST

And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.  (Luke 14:27 NKJV)

Notice the threefold repetition of these solemn words: he cannot be My disciple (Luke 14:26, Luke 14:27, Luke 14:33). There is a sense in which the way of salvation is easy. One look of faith in Christ, and we receive eternal life and are assured by Him that through our obedience we can never perish; but that living faith must carry in its heart the germ of discipleship, the tenacity, determination, indomitable resolve to learn everything that the Master has to teach. We are not only saved from sin, but we are saved to learn, redeemed to be taught. The education is free, but there are certain things which we must be prepared to forego if we would be entered into His school. The disciple must bring the unbiased and disengaged mind to the grace of God, which comes disciplining us, teaching us to deny ungodly lusts, and to live righteously, soberly, and godly in this present world.

What are the things which we must cultivate for discipleship?

A supreme love ((Luke 14:26). Our Lord does not ask us really to hate those related to us by natural ties, but to give to Himself so much love that compared with all else, it should be as sunlight to starlight; that for love of Him we should be willing to act as one who hates all other loves when they conflict with obedience. We are first converted from the natural to the spiritual, and then from the spiritual to the natural again.

The denial of self (Luke 14:27). We are not simply to cut off this or the other indulgence, but to put the cross of Christ between ourselves and the gratification of our own will. We must be willing to follow the Lamb, though the old Abraham cries out in grievous pain.

Renunciation (Luke 14:33). We must be prepared to count all things but loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord. As a matter of fact, Jesus gives us back all that is right and beautiful to use for Him, but there must be a definite loosing hold on things, and the placing of all in His pierced hands. Renouncing our ownership, we must be willing to act as His servants and trustees. It is this that gives savor to life, making it sparkle and resist decay.

PRAYER

Accept us as we now yield to You our entire being with all that we possess. It is our one desire to be utterly, only, and always for You.  I pray it in Jesus’ name, AMEN.

God's Daily Promise