To Be Willing to Count the Cost
Lord Jesus,
You tell me to count the cost of being your disciple. The implication is that following you will not be without its roadblocks. Counting the cost means considering what sacrifices and steps I am willing to take to address those roadblocks. Paying lip service to those sacrifices is one thing; following through with my actions and behavior is another.
Nevertheless, always keep in front of me that it is not my dedication, my sacrificial living, or my willingness to count the cost of discipleship that save me; that work belongs to you and you alone. And, you’ve already carried it out! It is your sacrifice on my behalf that creates in me the willing heart to live sacrificially for you. So lead me to and not from the crosses in my life. As I focus my attention on your cross, it provides a different perspective on how small my crosses are. As I focus my attention on your sacrifice for me, it provides a different perspective on how small my sacrifices really are. Grant me then, the willingness to sacrifice all things for you.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.