June 12

Decision For Christ

And whoever does not carry his cross and follow Me cannot be My disciple. — Luke 14:27 BSB

Notice the threefold repetition of these solemn words: “he cannot be My disciple” (Luke 14:26, 27, 33). There is a sense in which the way of salvation is easy. One look of faith in Christ, and we receive eternal life, assured that we will never perish. But that faith must carry the seed of discipleship, the determination and resolve to learn all that the Master has to teach. We are not only saved from sin; we are saved to learn, redeemed to be taught. The education is free, but there are things we must be willing to let go of if we are to be accepted into His school. The disciple must come with a mind open to God’s grace, which disciplines and teaches us to deny ungodliness and live righteously in this world.

What qualities must we cultivate for discipleship?

A supreme love (Luke 14:26). Jesus doesn’t literally ask us to hate those closest to us, but to love Him so supremely that, by comparison, all other loves seem like shadows. For love of Him, we must be willing to act as though we “hate” any love that conflicts with obedience to Him. First, we are converted from the natural to the spiritual, and then the spiritual transforms the natural.

The denial of self (Luke 14:27). It’s not just about cutting off certain indulgences but about placing the Cross of Christ between ourselves and the gratification of our own desires. We must be willing to follow the Lamb, even when it causes deep pain.

Renunciation (Luke 14:33). We must be ready to count all things as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus our Lord. In reality, Jesus gives us back all that is right and beautiful to use for His glory, but we must first loosen our hold on everything and place it in His hands. Only by renouncing ownership can we live as stewards of His blessings. This makes life sparkle and preserves it from decay.

Prayer

Accept us, Lord, as we now yield to You our whole being with all we possess. Our one desire is to be utterly, only, and always Yours. Amen.