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The Apostle Paul wrote, “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses” (1 Timothy 6:12).
Throughout Scripture, examples of faithful servants appear. Notably, Joseph, Daniel and Moses come to mind in the Old Testament. However, nearly all the disciples, too, showed their servitude, laying down their lives as fishermen, tax collectors and wood makers, simply responding to Jesus’ command “to follow.”
Jesus spoke often about the cost of discipleship. He warned that the world hated Him and would hate His followers too. Peter, an example of a fallen man, yet a faithful servant, both denied Christ and eventually died for Him.
In the book of Matthew, we are explicitly told our reward is given in heaven. And while this is an amazing realization, Christians often face many trials and tribulations in the journey to get there.
Being a faithful servant requires hardship. This explains the reality and importance of Jesus and His declaration in picking up one’s cross and following Him daily:
“And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it'” (Luke 9:23-24).
Make no mistake, Christians will be challenged and tested, often daily. Sin and temptation are potent. From ridicule to ostracism, the cost of discipleship is real.
Christianity is certainly not for the weak, nor for the conformers. Yet, the joy of walking with Christ and being led by the Spirit ensures that man is capable of great things through Christ. Christians are and have historically been changemakers. Genuine freedom from the bondage of sin is found in Christ.
Jesus never demands perfection, but what He does seek is sincerity. His desire for His followers is a real commitment, not half-hearted or casual. The Scriptures teach that every aspect of our lives must be centered on the Lord and His ways.
From being the shining city on the hill to the salt and light of the world, the implications of sharing the faith are evident. The greatest commandment of loving God and thy neighbor sums up the purpose of every believer.
It is Jesus Christ who changes lives and saves the souls of mankind, but He certainly uses fellow men in the process to transform the world.
We conclude by asking, “Are you a faithful servant? Are your priorities those of this temporary world, or do you seek to pick up your cross daily and walk with the Lord?”
May we examine our hearts and ask honestly whether we are living as faithful servants of Christ. The path is often costly, but the reward is eternal. May we take up our cross daily and follow Him with boldness.
