Dear Explorer,
Read Luke 14:28-35
Count the cost.
On Day 106 we discussed some of the things you would need to give up to become a follower of Jesus. You may need to review that. We also discussed things that you gain as a result of inviting Jesus into your empty God-shaped vacuum.
It's your choice.
In Luke 14:33 what does Jesus say is a requirement for being an obedient follower?
“You cannot be my disciple unless you give up everything.” What does that mean?
It means letting go of ownership and letting Jesus be completely in charge of your SELF.
Luke 14:34 is a pretty strong statement. But Jesus wants you to understand it.
Jesus says that His followers will be like salt (Day 72). Here He simply states a fact. If salt is not salty – what do you do with it? It's not good for anything! You can't even throw it out on the yard – it will kill the grass! You can't even throw it in the compost heap – it will kill the fertilizer's effect. It is worthless!
I believe that He's referring to a person who has invited Jesus into His God-shaped vacuum, but who refuses to obey His instructions. He, either by ignorance or deliberately, is following SELF instead of the Holy Spirit. Jesus states that they are worthless in His Kingdom. And they are some of the most miserable fellows you will ever meet!
I want you to see another Scripture where Jesus taught this same thing.
Read Revelation 3:15-17
In these verses, Jesus gives a very similar message to a group of followers who were not following the Holy Spirit's instructions. Jesus says that they were not hot (obeying the Holy Spirit) and they were not cold (empty), and it made Him want to vomit!
How do we stay salty? By obedience! Don't conform to this world's way of thinking or it will dull you. Read too many of this world's books and it will dull you. Spend too much time with friends who are not followers or followers who are not obedient, and it will dull you. Spend too much time on your computer, or watching T.V., or playing video games, and it will dull you. Be on the lookout for anything that lessens your desire to grow in Jesus.
One time a Bible teacher asked us to quickly draw a chart to include all the hours of the last month. She asked us to mark out the hours we slept and worked or were in school. Then she asked us to indicate all the hours that we spent pursuing God in Bible study, prayer, worship or ministry. I was shocked at how little time I gave to God!
I pray that you will grow in your commitment to be His disciple (obedient follower).
In His service, dale
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