Estimate the Cost

I remember, when I was younger, I went to a big gospel crusade in Kenya. Many people came to either participate in one way or another, or to observe. Then came the great moment when the preacher gave an altar call for those who want to invite Jesus into their lives. Hundreds flocked to the front to make the commitment. I remember thinking to myself; it’s so easy to go forward if many people are doing it!

Whilst studying the Scripture I came upon this verse (Luke 14:28), and it reminded me of that crusade! The earlier verses show that Jesus was speaking to a large crowd, probably like the one I was at. He began telling them about the cost of following Him and being a disciple. In the end He says "if anyone of you does not give up everything he has he cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:33).

When we come into God`s kingdom there are conditions for citizenship, just as in any kingdom. There is the aspect of `giving up everything`. Jesus mentioned this to a young rich man who came to Him and wanted to know what he could do to enter the kingdom of God. Jesus challenged him on `giving up everything`. It’s so easy to say this, but actions matter more!

Jesus knew the hearts of men and said "Before you embark on to building, count the cost". What will it cost you to complete a building? It`s not a decision to rush into. You have to estimate the cost! Many come to the Kingdom, but are unwilling to give up everything. Surrendering to God is not a quick prayer of repentance. It`s a journey where we must sit down and estimate the cost. Everyone can say a prayer, but living the life that God is calling us to live will cost us!

We live in a time where the Church, the body of Christ world wide, is being challenged. Our commitment is getting even more costly. We have to give up many things, surrendering them to His will, even, for some, their very freedom. There’s no room for lukewarm Christianity in our day and age.

But we also need to remember that `that which costs nothing is not worth anything`. When King David needed to build an altar to the Lord, he would not accept a free gift of the threshing floor, because it cost him nothing (2 Samuel 24:21-25). To David, a sacrifice was worthless if it costs the offer-er nothing.

The discipleship to which Christ calls us means a life of surrender to God`s will and sacrifice for His cause. If we count the cost of a full submission to Christ`s claim of us, we also must count on His grace and help to become one with Him. His disciples do not make the journey to His Kingdom for free. It costs them their lives.

Bu He requires nothing of us that He Himself has not done. He counted the cost before proceeding with His plan for salvation of humanity. He knows the cost before accomplishing the goal!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I choose to surrender my everything (mention areas where you have held back from His lordship) and I want to fully and consciously follow You, no matter what it will cost me. Bring to light anything that could be holding me from fully surrendering to You. I know You love me. Amen.