19 OCT 23 Thursday: A Closer Walk Devotional
“If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine.” Matthew 10: 32a, 38a
Have you ever had your commitments tested? In the last couple of years, technology has become a dominant part of our lives to the extent that it can threaten personal and national security. An application called Tic Tok, owned by the Chinese government, posed a threat to personal information, financial security, and collective national security. The United States government wanted to ban it nationally, but there was a kickback!
People desired social media more than their freedom or personal and national security. What about allegiance and dedication to the neighbor or nation? This is not much of a test of commitment, but the people failed in their commitment. In the passage in Matthew, Jesus lays out a major and dramatic test of our commitment to him. Are you truly going to live for Jesus come what may? If not, you are not worthy of being mine.
Jesus said he didn’t come to bring peace, but a sword. (v.34) There will be major divisions because you are a Christian. Realize that Jesus presents all of these challenges that believers will face before they become one. He never is guilty of bait and switch, but lets everyone know upfront. Jesus explains that being called by my name will divide families, communities, and nations. If you are a true believer, you will commit yourself even if it fractures all of your relationships.
Muslims who come to faith in Jesus can lose their family, community, and even their lives. In America, you may be treated with indifference, shame, rejection, and socially ostracized. Be sure your commitment to Jesus and the mission he has given us will be tested. The question is, what will you do? Will you kick back against Jesus and tell him, no? Or will you say like the hymnist, thou none go with me I still will follow, no turning back I’ll follow Him.
Is God testing your loyalty and commitment to Him?
Reading Plan: Psalm 18:1-20; Jer. 38:1-13; 1 Cor. 14:26-33a, 37-49; Matt. 10:34-42 bb
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