How to be a Disciple

N.T.#194

Nov. 29, 2023 "How to be a Disciple"

Matthew 16-Part 10

LET IT GLOW

Jesus gave His disciples and us instructions on how to be His disciple. If we desire to be a follower of Jesus Christ, then we must trade self-centeredness for God-centeredness. A Christian spends a lifetime denying self. We struggle with giving our time and effort to the goals of this world. We can't wait until we are successful then give God the glory. God receives glory from his activity through our life. That's an eye opener, isn't it? We must deny our goals, our desires, our self, and join the activity of God as He reveals it to us. 

LET IT GROW

Neither circumstances we face nor consequences of our own actions are our cross. Our cross is God's will for you and me regardless of the cost. This may include suffering in order for God to bring salvation to those around us. Hardships, giving of our time and energy, sacrificing whatever, inconvenience, will probably be involved. However, it will be worth it after all.

Thirdly, we follow Jesus. This requires absolute obedience. It is not our choice as to which direction is suitable. God already knows what is best without ever having to consult with us. His leading may take us through a storm, like the disciples experience, or on a mountaintop. What a joy it is when we see the broken made whole, those in bondage set free, those who mourn, comforted, and a sinner saved.

Do you need to return to Jesus? Or have you ever met Jesus as your Savior? Are you willing to follow Jesus anywhere, at any time, under any condition? That is the only way we can follow Him.

[Resource: Experiencing God Day-By-Day, a devotional by Henry and Richard Blackaby]

LET IT GO

                     ... and let God.