A sober, hope-filled call from crowds to commitment as Pastor Roderick Webster opens Matthew 8:18 –22—“count the cost, and follow Jesus, because God is still on the throne.”

God is still on the throne—even when life looks dark. Today Pastor Roderick Webster opens Matthew 8:18 –22 (with Luke 9:57 –62 and Mark 4:36 ) and asks: How committed are we when the crowds fade and the cost rises? From “foxes have holes” to “let the dead bury their dead,” this devotion moves us from quick talk to long obedience. We also pause to sing My Father Planned It All, trusting God’s sovereign hand.

Scriptures: Matthew 8:18 –22; Luke 9:57 –62; Mark 4:36
Theme: The cost of discipleship • Commitment over comfort • God’s sovereignty
Prayer: “Lord, keep us from quick talk and make us faithful followers. Give us grace to cross to the other side. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Chapters
00:00 Introduction & encouragement
00:20 God is in control—still on the throne
00:41 Hymn: My Father Planned It All
01:04 How committed are you? (Matthew 8:18 –22)
03:21 Counting the cost: reevaluating commitment
05:33 Quick talkers vs. long walkers (the scribe)
08:41 The other side of following: sacrifice & sobriety
11:29 Blessing + share

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Comment your takeaway in the Q&A: “I’m crossing to the other side.”