The true cost of following Christ

Pastor Mike Novotny

Jesus wasn’t a fan of fine print. When someone from the crowds wanted to follow him, Jesus didn’t get out a glossy brochure with all the blessings of believing. Instead, he admitted the true cost of being a Christian.

“When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake. Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, ‘Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.’ Jesus replied, ‘Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head’” (Matthew 8:18-20). Even though this teacher of the law was ready to follow “wherever” Jesus went, our Savior still wanted him to know how hard that “going” might get.

Jesus wants you to know that too. Being a Christian will cost you. Letting go of control and letting Jesus be the Lord of your life (your schedule, your sexuality, your checkbook, your body, your worldview, your everything) will make you more uncomfortable than a homeless man without a pillow.

So why would you become (or stay) a Christian? Because Jesus is worthy. He is a treasure, a pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44-46). He is the Lamb of God who takes away your sin (John 1:29). Following Jesus is the only way to get to God (John 14:6).

Be honest with yourself about how much Jesus will cost you. But make sure to remember all that Jesus promises you. He is worthy! Jesus is worth it!

Devotional used by permission of Time of Grace®. For more information, visit www.timeofgrace.org