Counting the Cost
Luke 14:28
For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it.
Thought:
Jesus tells us that a wise builder sits down and counts the cost before starting a tower. A wise king thinks carefully before going to war. In the same way, Jesus wants us to understand that following Him is not a quick emotional choice. It is a serious lifelong commitment.
Many people are moved in a moment of feeling and say they will follow Jesus. But they do not stop to think about what it will mean. They do not consider that discipleship will touch their money, their schedule, their relationships, and their plans. They expect blessing without burden and a crown without a cross.
Jesus does not want shallow promises. He wants honest disciples who understand that He asks for everything. The good news is that He also gives everything. He gives forgiveness, His Spirit, His presence, and eternal life. The price is high, but the reward is greater than we can imagine. To count the cost is not to run away. It is to enter the path with clear eyes and a willing heart.
Prayer:
Father, in Jesus name, help me to be honest about the cost of following Your Son. Forgive me for the times I have wanted comfort more than obedience. Teach me to sit down in Your presence and count the cost, not with fear, but with faith. Remind me that Jesus is worth more than anything I could ever lose. Give me a steady heart that will not turn back when discipleship becomes hard. Finish the work You have begun in me, and help me to follow Christ to the end. Amen.
For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it.
Thought:
Jesus tells us that a wise builder sits down and counts the cost before starting a tower. A wise king thinks carefully before going to war. In the same way, Jesus wants us to understand that following Him is not a quick emotional choice. It is a serious lifelong commitment.
Many people are moved in a moment of feeling and say they will follow Jesus. But they do not stop to think about what it will mean. They do not consider that discipleship will touch their money, their schedule, their relationships, and their plans. They expect blessing without burden and a crown without a cross.
Jesus does not want shallow promises. He wants honest disciples who understand that He asks for everything. The good news is that He also gives everything. He gives forgiveness, His Spirit, His presence, and eternal life. The price is high, but the reward is greater than we can imagine. To count the cost is not to run away. It is to enter the path with clear eyes and a willing heart.
Prayer:
Father, in Jesus name, help me to be honest about the cost of following Your Son. Forgive me for the times I have wanted comfort more than obedience. Teach me to sit down in Your presence and count the cost, not with fear, but with faith. Remind me that Jesus is worth more than anything I could ever lose. Give me a steady heart that will not turn back when discipleship becomes hard. Finish the work You have begun in me, and help me to follow Christ to the end. Amen.
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