To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

1 Peter 2:21

 

Do you love Jesus enough to follow him – wherever he might lead you? Do you have the courage?

If we look into New Testament accounts, we’ll see that following Jesus calls for sacrifice. Jesus’ first followers had to leave behind businesses, homes, families, wealth, position, status and power. As they walked with Jesus into an uncertain future, they were sacrificing security, comfort and control. They had no idea where Jesus would take them. It’s the same for us today.

Do you have the courage? Are you willing?

Following Jesus is not easy, because it means leaving the life we’re familiar with to live differently. It means taking up our cross and following Jesus’ example, to the point of suffering as he did. Although this doesn’t usually mean actual death, we should be willing to die or suffer rather than denying him. Followers of Jesus regard the rewards he offers to be worth the price.

Jesus promised he would give us the joy and peace of the Holy Spirit (John 14:15-19), he comforts us in our trials (James 1:12), and acts as a faithful high priest who understands our struggles (Hebrews 2:17). He brings us peace with God by his blood (Romans 5:1).

At times we face unjust suffering, not as extreme as Jesus’ crucifixion, but painful nevertheless. This calls for us to look to Jesus as our example – to fix our eyes on him while enduring the pain. It calls for us to despise the shame that comes with possible abandonment, loss of reputation and dignity. Jesus would not let the suffering of shame take away from “the joy set before him” (Hebrews 12:2) and neither should we.

Would you have the courage:

  • to live like Jesus and be like Jesus, even if you’re in danger of being ostracised?
  • to stand up for Christ’s way, in a world that does not believe in him?
  • to speak out against what is wrong, even if it means persecution?
  • to lead humbly – a) having respect for those under you, b) open to others’ opinions, c) not controlling, and d) willing to be accountable to other leaders?

As you follow Jesus and become more committed, you might be surprised at what God will call you to and what he will help you do. You’ll find out how meaningful life can be.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

Marja