TODAY’s SCRIPTURE : Matthew 10-12 Chapters
DEVOTION
Matthew 10:38 (NKJV)
“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.”
Accepting Christ as our Saviour is not just about receiving His blessings, it is also about making a commitment to follow Him wholeheartedly. This commitment comes with responsibilities, sacrifices, and sometimes difficult choices.
Following Christ may separate us from certain friends or even create differences with our loved ones. This does not mean that we should disagree with others or disobey our parents or disrespect our elders. Rather, it means that when our faith calls us to make a choice, we must be willing to put Christ first. His presence in our lives demands a decision about whom we will follow.
As we take up our cross and follow Him, our values, morals, goals, and purpose may begin to differ from those of the people around us. The things we once considered normal may no longer be pleasing to God. We may need to give up certain habits, change the way we speak, correct our actions, or walk away from friendships and relationships that draw us away from Him.
Taking up our cross means being willing to deny ourselves, surrender our desires to God’s will, and publicly identify ourselves with Jesus Christ. It means standing firm in our faith even when we face criticism, rejection, opposition, or hardship. It is a call to remain faithful to Him, whatever the cost.
Let us examine our lives
Is there a habit we need to surrender?
Is there a relationship that is drawing us away from God?
Are we willing to stand for Christ even when others do not understand our choices?
Following Jesus is not always easy, but He is worthy of our complete commitment. Wherever we go, may our words, actions, attitudes, and decisions reflect the Christ.
PRAYER
Father, help me to take up my cross and follow You faithfully every day. Give me the courage to stand for You in my school, college, workplace, and marketplace. Help me to honour my parents and elders while remaining obedient to Your Word above all else. Give me the strength to let go of every habit, relationship, or desire that draws me away from You. May my words, actions, and decisions bring glory to Your name. Even when following You becomes difficult, help me remain faithful and never be ashamed of my identity in Christ. In Jesus name, I pray, amen.