Listen to Devotion

And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

Luke 14:27

He Can!

After reading the Bible passage today, you might feel defeated. Jesus said to the large crowds gathering around Him, “And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:27 . May as well give up, huh? There’s even a cross reference in Matthew 10:38 which says, “and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.” In the footnotes for that Bible passage it states, “The cross was an instrument of death and here symbolizes the necessity of total commitment—even unto death—on the part of Jesus’ disciples.”

If you take a look at your life right now, would you claim yourself as a disciple of Jesus? Odds are, if a show of hands was asked, your hand wouldn’t shoot up. Still feeling defeated, huh?

The Bible tells us in Romans 3:23 , “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

Did you hear that? He picked up the cross and did it all.

Our sins make it impossible for us to be worthy, but He paid the price for our sins when he picked up the cross, suffered and died for us, so that we could enjoy the glory of heaven.

If you ever feel that you are unworthy to tell the good news of Jesus, be reminded that you are, and yet, through His suffering, death, and resurrection, we are not seen as unworthy. In fact, He calls us to join Him to spread the gospel message to the world. What an honor and privilege it is to have such a responsibility.

Our cross, alone, is too heavy to bear, but we are not alone. We have Jesus by our side every step of the way. Close your eyes and imagine him lifting that cross for us.

So go! Go spread the Word with confidence. He wants you to be his disciple! He wants you to joyfully spread his name. Don’t feel defeated. While you can’t lift your cross, He can. He did! Praise Jesus!

Prayer:

Jesus, thank you. With all of our might, we could never lift our cross to be your disciple and yet, you’ve made a way for us. Help us when we are tempted to think your way is too hard. Strengthen us in our longing to serve you and spread your truth. Thank for your Word. Helps us love it and read it daily. Amen.

A Question to Consider:

Is there anyone on your staff today that you could encourage in their journey as a disciple? Pray about it and think of a way to make their cross a little lighter today.