The Cost of Following Jesus

Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn away from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me." -Mark 8:34

In my experience, following Jesus is easier said than done. As much as I'd like to pray throughout the day, as much as I'd like to feel close to Him, it doesn't always happen. I'm left with disappointment and guilt when I reflect on my relationship with God.

As Christians, we're meant to give up our life, to stop embracing all our worldly and sinful desires. 

What if it means sacrificing our happiness?

What if we start walking on pins and needles, terrified of making the wrong move in God's eyes?

It's unclear how you can be a true follower of Jesus without losing yourself in the process.

While I believe everything in the Bible is right, I sometimes think it doesn't apply to my situation.

Does this make me any less of a Christian?

Are my shortcomings creating distance between me and God?

I don't understand how I can stop making selfish and superficial choices. It's human nature.

The good news is Jesus doesn't expect perfection from us.

We're allowed to make mistakes and all will be forgiven.

We can leave behind our former selves and become closer to Him, one day at a time.