Follow Me!

"Because God disciplines those He loves, He will take drastic measures to get our attention if we need to grow up spiritually."   - Crystal McDowell

It's far to easy for us to get sidetracked and concern ourselves with things that Jesus already has taken note of. If one truly is a disciple of Christ, then Jesus will take of them. Our main business is to follow the Lord Jesus Christ.

We see this in action in John 21:20-22 (NIV). Here, as they walk along, Peter is curiously asking Jesus, maybe in a vain and/or brash manner, about John's future, who is following from behind.

Jesus' answers Peter, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me" John 21:22 (NIV). This reproval by Christ was stern and clear. It was meant to make a point.

The CEV translation of Jesus' response in the same verse begins "What is it to you?" Jesus was telling Peter not to worry about what was going to happen to John. In other words, we need to get our own house in order first!

A big reason many Christians come crashing to the ground in regards to their service, is that they are too preoccupied with what's going on with fellow disciples (not in a good way), instead of concentrating on the Lord Himself.

Jesus' command to "follow me," is very enlightening and comprehensive. In it we find every other requirement and mandate of the Gospel. Not only that, but it calls into action every power and capacity of our renewed being.

It directs us to follow with the heart. That is, we are not bowing to some outside pressure or trying to showing an outward conformity to His will, but rather it comes from deep within our hearts. It is loving and sincere.

It tells us to follow in faith. We must step out into the unseen, trusting in Jesus Christ unconditionally. We have the promises of God as our guarantee. Think only of Him, listen to His voice. "Faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ" Romans 10:17 (NLT).

It indicates that we must follow with the will. Our will needs to be in this following either all the way, or nothing. True obedience starts, not in outwardly observable actions, but in the will. If we are serious about following Christ, we must will to do His will.

Never forget, "press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" Philippians 3:14 (NLT). Stay focused, be obedient, and resilient. And, let Jesus do what He does best!

Scripture: Matthew 16:24; John 14:6; Romans 10:10; Ephesians 2:8; John 10:27

Prayer: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me, amen.  -Galatians 2:20

Stay blessed, 

Kate