The Mark of a Disciple
“Then Jesus said to his followers, ‘If people want to follow me, they must give up the things they want. They must be willing even to give up their lives to follow me. Those who want to save their lives will give up true life, and those who give up their lives for me will have true life.’” – Matthew 16:24-25
Being a disciple of God’s is not easy. It is a hard role at times because those who want to be one must give up what they desire in life. It can include earthly possessions like money, a fancy house, a boat or whatever they enjoy doing. When they do, it is a mark of a disciple. A disciple is a follower of Jesus. Jesus warned His followers in Matthew 16:24-25 that they have to give up what they desire to follow Him, even possibly including their life. People were persecuting Christians in Biblical times and the same could happen to Christians in the present.
However, there is something better in becoming a disciple of Christ. He promises if someone gives up their earthly possessions and life to follow Him, it will be worth it since they are promised treasures and life in heaven. It is important since this life and its possessions are temporary. It seems like a huge loss while we are alive but is a bigger loss for those who want earthly things. They will lose everything and be separated from God in hell forever (Matthew 16:26).
Being a disciple is a great honor since God picks people to follow Him (John 15:16). Jesus picked all of his twelve disciples from Peter to Philip (Luke 6:13-16). They served Him until they died. Jesus’ disciples also served others (Luke 9:14–17) and all but John and Judas died for their faith. A disciple’s life is not glamorous or exciting, it is full of hardships and danger. Jesus teaches that following Him will not be easy. It requires commitment, sacrifice and doing the opposite of what the world does. Following Christ has great benefits. We get to experience joy and peace unlike the world. We get to worship and praise Jesus and God as we spend eternity in heaven with them.
Prayer of the day:
Dear heavenly Father,
Today is the day that we pray for more people to become Your followers. It is a great honor since not everyone is willing or called to serve You. It is not an easy task. It takes commitment and sacrifice, and it is the opposite from what the world does. Please give us the task so others can see Your glory and give You praise. You are worthy and we are not. Please give us the chance to be Your disciples since following Christ is the only way to experience peace and joy in this world. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!
