Matthew 16:24 (KJV)
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
Commitment, Loyalty, Dedication, and Sacrifice are words that define our walk with God. They are also words that truly reflect the actions of an individual in whose life the essence of relationship is understood.
Meaning that if we claim to love someone and are unwilling to be dedicated, loyal, committed and sacrificial to toward that person, then we are not really in a relationship. Even so, Jesus Christ made it clear that if anyone wants to follow Him such an individual must be willing and ready to be committed, dedicated, loyal and sacrificial.
This Christianity of Convenience is not true Christianity. This Christianity of eye-service is not true Christianity. This Christianity of half-heartedness towards God and His commands is not true Christianity. It is either you are fully committed, or you are not. It is either you love Christ and it is seen in your actions and dedication or you are not. No one can effectively serve two masters. No one can put his or her hands on the plow and looks back that is worthy of the Kingdom.
The unfortunate thing is that we all have things or people including ‘Self’ that we are dedicated and committed to as against being committed to God. If implying that God does not force you but if you choose to be His disciple, then Christ said first, deny self.
What does that mean? What is self? It is the natural man or personality that is not subject to God or His ways. It is the sensual nature of the human mind that follows the detect of the flesh. It manifests in natural appetites and desires that are ungodly and unrighteous. It is the exhalation of one’s ways over God. Denying it means not allowing it to control your life.
Following after is a continuous process. Your destination is heaven and until you get there, you can’t afford to stop. The cross is your full identification with Christ. His purposes here on earth. His Gospel and His Kingdom becomes the central pursuit of your life.
Fruitfulness can only be possible when we fully embrace Christ and follow Him. For without Him we can do nothing. If you are a Christian, then be one indeed. Quit these excuses and realize that you are called to a life of Commitment, Dedication, Sacrifice and Loyalty to Christ.
Shalom,
Apostle Morgan.