When Jesus said that we must carry our cross to follow Him, He does
not only mean bearing the problems and difficulties we currently have.
Carrying our cross also means facing the consequences of making
day-to-day choices that honor Him — even if it causes us sadness,
isolation, and even financial instability.
“And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If
anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross
and follow me.” Mark 8:34
Since our Savior’s love language is obedience, following Him means
living a life that pleases Him. Some of these include severing social
connections that do not honor Him, being totally honest, quitting habits that are hurtful
and unfruitful, and letting go of dishonest sources of wealth at the
risk of discomfort and inconvenience.
“Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which
he walked.” 1 John 2:6
Once we have surrendered these things, preoccupations, and
relationships that once gave us happiness yet separated us from Him,
then can we truly say that we are walking in His ways.
And while the blessings of obedience do not automatically translate
into material wealth or worldly success, these blessings definitely
are treasures that money cannot buy and the world cannot take away.
Walking with Jesus affords us peace of mind, contentment, hope,
security and joy that remain in our hearts in both good times and bad.
“And observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in obedience to
him, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and regulations, as
written in the Law of Moses. Do this so that you may prosper in all
you do and wherever you go.” 1 Kings 2:3
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to
ponder on Ephesians 5:1-11 and John 14:15-26 to dig deeper on today’s
topic.
Reflection Question: What specific crosses are you still struggling to
carry? Are there any consequences that are too hard to bear for you?
How does knowing that God’s grace is sufficient to help you bear those
sufferings you need to go through to live a life that is pleasing to
Jesus?
 Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you that
following you does not only put our lives in order, it also bring us
Your peace that transcends any circumstance we will face. Thank you
that in you we have hope. Grant us the confidence to continue
following Your will, and the strength to carry on. Amen.