Whose Disciple?

Whose disciple are we? I don't mean simply what we might verbally claim, but what does our life actually reveal? There are some who refer to themselves as being "their own man." What that generally means is, they are the one who calls the shots. Their actions and thinking are influenced by no one. Their claim is that no one else rules them, but rather they themselves are the one directing the course of their life. With such a focus, are they becoming or have they become their own disciple (follower/learner)?

It is true we do make personal choices relative to life's direction and allowing the world to do our decision making and thinking for us can put us on the wrong path. However, being "our own man" or "our own woman" implies we are our own disciple! It means we are under our own rule! Where will that get us? How far have we gotten when life has been based on our own desires and understanding?

We must remember that Jesus declared. . .
"(33) So therefore, ANYONE OF YOU WHO DOES NOT RENOUNCE ALL THAT HE HAS CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLES." ( Luke 14:33 ESV)

In verses 26 and 27 of this chapter Jesus declared that being HIS DISCIPLE requires putting Him before all other relationships -- including self -- and being willing to bear our own cross. The view of self and what we possess needs to be kept in proper perspective lest we be distracted from what should mark our steadfast relationship to Christ. Is self still too much in the way? With regard to our life, if Jesus is not Lord of all, He is really not Lord at all! We are not truly HIS DISCIPLES if we keep taking back the control. It is life lived under HIS LORDSHIP that provides the guidance capable of moving us continually in the path of righteousness and ultimately toward an eternity with Him.

If our own desires or the possessions of earth have too much of a pull in our life, the Lord will not have HIS RIGHTFUL PLACE and we could find ourselves easily influenced away from Him and His Will. Self denial is a must in order to BE HIS!

Have a great day FOCUSED TO REMAIN THE LORD'S!
Carl

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