Are You Willing To Pay The Cost? by Myra Boozer

Matthew 16:24, "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."

There may be those who want to claim Christianity without making a lifetime commitment and completely selling out to this world. But, that is what it will take to become a follower of Christ. Jesus tells us in His Word to take up our cross and follow Him. That means the same to any and all of us. The plan is the same for all. "Follow Me!" Jesus' own words, and they cry out to us on a daily basis.

To make a start for Christ is very personal and life-changing. But, it isn't just a one-time deal and back to the same ole life. It is a complete turnaround with everything that touches our life. I will say it is not a bed of roses, although the Rose of Sharon, Jesus Christ will be your personal coach, your encourager, and your ever-constant friend.

When you are convicted of your sin, you realize that the only one who can help you with the weight and penalty of the sin is Jesus Christ. You have come to the most important realization known to mankind. You are brought to a place of humility and submission, a place of surrender not just for the moment but for the rest of your life. You come to understand what a great price Jesus paid on the cross of Calvary and you’re willing to become His servant, not for a day or a week but forever.

Living for Christ is not about all my wants and desires being fulfilled. It isn't about never having an enemy or ever being bullied. It is a struggle some days. It cost something to be a real Christian according to the standard of the Bible. There are enemies to overcome, battles to be fought, sacrifices to be made, an Egypt to be forsaken, a wilderness to pass through, a race to run, and a cross to carry.

Actually, it is the beginning of a mighty conflict in which Satan will try to steal everything God has done for you. You will have to fight with the Sword of God's Word. It will be the beginning of a mighty conflict in which you will have to stand strong in the Lord by trusting, obeying, sacrificing, and dying (to self) daily. Yes, It cost to be a real Christian but you will not regret your decision because the love of God is greater than anything this world has to offer.

It takes a made-up mind to do anything these days and serving the LORD is no different. The rewards are so many and the Peace He brings is the envy of all those who are searching. Yes, it cost something to be a Real Christian. Are You Willing To Pay The Cost?