Jesus was specific about what it takes to be a good disciple. If we want to mature in our walk with Christ, we should pay close attention.
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:24 NIV
Here are three steps to be an expert disciple:
First, we must deny ourselves – Jesus is not saying here that we should not own anything. He is not telling us to skip our vacations this year. He is saying for us to align our desires with His desires. He is asking us to prioritize our lifves! In denying ourselves, we are to look to Jesus and not unto our own abilities.
Second, we must take up our cross – I don’t have a cross, at least not literally, but what Jesus is encouraging here is for us to carry forth His mission. We are to be the salt of the Earth. We are to spread the Good News. We are to be Christ’s ambassadors to the world, as others see Jesus in us. The message and wonder of the cross is to be evident in us!
Third, we must follow Him -That may seem like the easiest, but it is perhaps the most difficult. I remember when I was younger playing “follow the leader.” The guy in front made all the moves. The object was to follow the leader exactly. It was usually easier in looks than in practice. Jesus is our leader, and every day, we need to mimic the Savior! It won’t always be easy, but it will always be best.
Which of these three steps do you most need to apply to your life today?
