Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

By Dan Woodbury, David C. Cook

Jesus’ foes wanted to put him to death. (Luke 9:22)  His fans believed in Him for some time (while He was winning the game) John 6:14.  His true followers soon had a “come to Jesus moment” when the game got tight, John 6:60-66.  But when He calls a true follower, they must be willing to give it all up.  Moving from fan to follower and on to becoming a true disciple just does not happen overnight.  Maturation into the “way of Jesus” takes time, effort, commitment, and love of our Savior.  

C.S. Lewis, in his book, Mere Christianity, says that as Jesus engages us in life, we have to make a decision.  He is either “liar, lunatic or Lord.”   For those of us that have declared Him Lord, we need to know what that understanding is. Even Bob Dylan,  in his song Gotta Serve Somebody, knows that we all serve somebody or something.  

Serving Jesus, declaring Him Lord, and choosing to follow Him brings great joy and peace, but we must not forget that the cross He asks us to bear will not be easy.  It may be challenging for a variety of reasons.   Through the Holy Spirit, His Word, and other believers, He does give us assurances that He is with us.  And that makes all the difference as we choose to follow Him.

Reflection Question: 

As you have moved from being a fan to a follower of Jesus (or trying to figure that all out), what divine moments, happenings, or realizations have pushed you to be a "follower" of Jesus and why?

Praise + Prayer:  

Dear Lord Jesus.  Thank you for Your word and the truth that it is to us because You say that it is.  We recognize that following You is not easy.  And we know that You know it won’t be easy because of what You told Your disciples and followers in Luke 9:23.    Help us keep our eyes on You, the perfecter of our faith. You are both the message and the messenger that gives life to us despite our sinful and arrogant ways.  We love You and thank You for all that You do for us as we move to become keen followers of You.  In the name of Jesus, Amen

Action Idea:

1. What does serving Jesus this week look like for me?
2. How can I take my faith deeper in understanding what it means to take up the cross of Jesus?
3. Are there areas of sacrifice in my life that I need to consider in becoming a more committed follower of Jesus?