This week, why not take some time to reflect on how committing to follow Jesus might change your life?
Ask yourself, “Where do I find it most difficult to follow Jesus?” At school, in my neighborhood, at my friend’s house, on the internet, at home, on my sports team? Will you commit to following Jesus even THERE? Will you commit to...being kind instead of critical? Respectful instead of sarcastic? Serving instead of sitting around? Being a “leader” instead of a “follower”? Telling the truth instead of lying? Being humble rather than proud?
The only way we can truly follow Jesus is by being willing to give up — or surrender — all we are and have to Him. Are you ready to do that, or are there still some things in your life that you know are holding you back but that you have a hard time giving up. “Surrendering all” of ourselves to Jesus really does mean ALL. Our entertainment choices, our pride, our “need” to be liked and approved by others, our money, and even our relationships. In short, saying “yes” to Jesus might mean saying “no” to me. Are there some things you know you need to say “no” to in your life, but are having a hard time doing that? Will you fill in the blank below, and then commit to praying about it?
Saying “yes” to Jesus means saying no to: ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________
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Ask the Lord to help you give up those things that are keeping you from following Him. He will hear and honor the desire of your heart! Check out Matthew 6:33 and Psalm 37:4.