Then he said to them all: Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. Luke 9:23.
We just celebrated the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the salvation He purchased for us through His death on a cross. Indeed, we are saved by grace through faith, and we are on our way to heaven. But while waiting for our translation into heaven, Jesus invites us to a life of discipleship. A disciple is an apprentice who submits to the instructions and training of the master to become as proficient as the master. Many of us started 2021 with the desire to walk closer with Jesus. As you reflect on this year, how did you perform? Did you meet your goals, or did you fail?
If your desire in the New Year is to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ, then, how you go about it will determine whether you will succeed or not. Read these passages and reflect on them: Luke 9:23-25; 57-62; 14:25-33. Here are issues you must first settle in your heart: Count the cost. Deny yourself. Give up your family and everything dear to you. Take up your cross daily and follow Jesus and Jesus alone. These are the things you must do. Let Jesus Christ be your LORD and not just your SAVIOR. Commune with Him through the Word and Prayer and in fellowship with Saints. Be filled and led by the Holy Spirit. Obey Him in everything. Say NO to ungodliness and sinful desires. Confess and repent of every sin the Holy Spirit convicts you of. Serve Christ and His body with your gifts and talents. God is willing to walk with you and give you success if you are sincere and willing to walk with Him.
HAPPY AND BLESSED NEW YEAR AHEAD.
Author: Rev. Sunday Bwanhot
Rev. Sunday Bwanhot is a missionary with EMS/SIM. He pastor’s ECWA Chicago, serves as ECWA USA DCC Chairman and Team leader of SIM Culture Connexions.
