Make Your Life Count For Christ!

"And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it -- lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him" (Luke 14:27-29 NKJ).

All my life I have heard the following simple plan for success. Plan then work your plan. Over the years, the problem has been that I didn't plan as carefully as I should. And according to Jesus, success depends on careful planning.

This time of the year calls for a review. We now have five months before a new year begins. Reviews, by definition, are not happy experiences. Life is a battle between improvement and stagnation. Improvement requires that I review my weaknesses and failures and so forth. I have to look at my resources to see if I have enough of whatever it will take to improve and succeed.

But while July is an exciting month, by the time it rolls into view I have nearly forgotten what I promised myself to achieve while "bearing my cross." So, what is a good plan for staying on track all year? What should I keep on my radar that normally blinks off? Here is what I'm thinking as I read the Lord's words:

I need to be focused. Keeping my discipleship simple will enable me to stay focused. Focused simplicity will make my cross-bearing doable. Start where I am and grow from there.

I need to create a goal with small achievable steps. Improving my obedience to the Lord's commands will enable me to maintain my commitment. It is amazing how many people tell me: "I know I'm not doing what I should be doing." Create a goal to obey "whatsoever" he has commanded, but begin with a specific one where obedience is lacking!

I need to nourish my mind and spirit. My perspective is the key to my transformation. Paul, the Apostle, wrote, "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." And Jesus taught that the whole discipleship thing is about how well we think through critical issues.

When considering the cross I bear for Christ, it is important to consider what it will cost me to bear it. When deciding to be Christ's disciple, it is essential to decide whether or not I have the intestinal and spiritual fortitude to bear the cross for his glory.

Dear Father, thank you for the cross you have given me to bear. Empower me with confidence and determination to follow you wherever you lead me. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Count the Cost! Live For Christ!