JUNE 18, 2025 ~ FROM A PASTOR'S HEART

JUNE 18 DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READING: MATTHEW 16:24-26

What does it mean to be a true follower of Jesus? I am convinced in the church there are many believers, but few genuine disciples (followers). It seems all the rage to make Jesus a part of our lives, as we can fit Him in nicely as we decide. It is the reason so many professed believers can say they are Christian, while at the same time say and do things that are completely contrary to what the Bible says about being followers of Jesus. We don't mind making Jesus a guest in our homes, but we don't really want Him to be the Master of the house. We call Him Lord in our churches...but then we tell Him what we are going to be and what we are going to do. The reality is, either Jesus is Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all. Jesus said, "Why do you call Me, Lord, Lord and not do what I tell you?"

Jesus told us if we want to be a follower of His, we must deny ourselves...take up our cross...and follow Him. To deny self is to become invisible. He is all we see and want. To take up our cross is to be unashamed of the cross...it is not our own personal cross, but His cross. To follow Him is to sing the old hymn "Wherever He Leads I'll Go"...and mean it. It is not a small thing to follow the Lord, but it is what He requires of His disciples. May we learn that His way is not just a good way, not just the best way, but for we Christians...it is the only way.

Please share your thoughts.