Daily Devotional – Sunday, March 20, 2022
And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.
Luke 14:27 (NKJV)
Jesus was a crowd puller. Thousands followed him wherever He went. Some wanted healing. Others followed him because He would provide food. There were also idlers and teachers of the law in the crowds.
On one occasion, he told the multitude, “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:26).
Whoever Does Not Bear His Cross and Come After Me….
Why would Jesus require them to hate their closest relatives and themselves? Jesus knew that a time would come when their family members and close friends would persecute Christ’s disciples.
Would they withstand suffering for the sake of God’s kingdom?
That is why He added:
“And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:27).
Only Cross Bearers will Receive a Crown
The cross symbolized persecution and suffering. Jesus was predicting His upcoming death as well as the persecution of His disciples. He wanted them to be ready psychologically for the trying times ahead.
Christianity demands everything from the believer. Jesus must be first in our lives. Nothing should come between Him and us. Carrying the cross is a continuous activity that only ends when we die or when Christ returns.
Is there an aspect of your life that you have not fully surrendered to the control and Lordship of Jesus Christ? Bear the cross of Jesus with joy and He will give you a crown with exceeding joy. Only those who bear the cross will receive the crown.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I will bear my cross and follow You because You carried Your cross on Calvary for my salvation.
Matthew 10:39
[39]He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
Amen, Danvas. Abundant blessing on you.