Is following Jesus supposed to be easy? I’m asking because sometimes I hear messages emphasizing the joy and peace that come from faith, and other times I hear about sacrifice, suffering, and taking up your cross. These seem contradictory. Is the Christian life inherently easy and stress-free, filled with blessings and comfort, as some prosperity gospel teachings might suggest? Or is it primarily a difficult path marked by constant struggle, persecution, and self-denial? What does the Bible actually say about the expected level of difficulty in following Jesus, and how do we reconcile the promises of peace and joy with the calls to sacrifice and perseverance in the face of adversity? Also, are there different seasons in a Christian’s life where the level of difficulty might vary?
Answer
Following Jesus is not presented as easy, but rather as a challenging and transformative journey.
Challenges and Sacrifices:
- Denial of Self: Jesus explicitly states that following him requires denying oneself (Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, Luke 9:23). This involves putting aside personal desires, ambitions, and comfort for the sake of following Christ’s teachings and will.
- Taking up the Cross: The "cross" symbolizes suffering, sacrifice, and persecution. Jesus calls his followers to take up their cross daily (Luke 9:23), indicating a commitment to endure hardship and stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity.
- Persecution: Jesus warns his followers that they will face persecution because of their association with him (John 15:18-20). The world, which does not accept Jesus, will also reject those who follow him.
- Difficult Teachings: Some of Jesus’ teachings are counter-cultural and challenging to accept. For example, loving enemies (Matthew 5:44), turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), and forgiving others (Matthew 6:14-15) are not easy or natural responses.
- Leaving Everything Behind: In some instances, following Jesus requires leaving behind one’s former life, possessions, and even family (Matthew 19:29, Luke 14:26, Luke 18:28-30). This radical commitment demonstrates the priority of following Christ above all else.
Rewards and Promises:
- Eternal Life: While following Jesus involves hardship, it also offers the promise of eternal life (John 3:16, John 10:28). This is the ultimate reward for those who remain faithful.
- Abundant Life: Jesus promises an abundant life (John 10:10), which is not necessarily one of ease or material wealth, but a life filled with purpose, meaning, and joy in relationship with God.
- Peace: Jesus offers peace that surpasses understanding (John 14:27, Philippians 4:7). This peace is not the absence of trouble, but an inner calm and assurance that comes from trusting in God.
- Guidance and Support: Jesus promises to be with his followers always (Matthew 28:20). He provides guidance through the Holy Spirit (John 14:26) and offers support in times of difficulty.
- Transformation: Following Jesus leads to personal transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are changed from the inside out, becoming more like Christ in their thoughts, words, and actions.
Overall:
The path of following Jesus is demanding, requiring commitment, sacrifice, and perseverance. It is not a path of ease, but one of transformation and growth. While there are challenges, there are also rewards, including eternal life, abundant life, peace, and the presence of God. The emphasis is on a life of discipleship, learning, and obedience to Christ, motivated by love and gratitude for his sacrifice.
Pray This Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before you today grappling with a question that weighs on our hearts: Is following Jesus supposed to be easy? We see the sacrifices, the hardships, the challenges faced by those who truly dedicate their lives to you. We read the stories of persecution and suffering endured in your name. And sometimes, Lord, it feels far from easy.
We confess that we long for comfort, for a smooth path free of obstacles. We are tempted to believe that if we are truly following you, our lives should be filled with blessings and ease. Forgive us for this selfish desire.
Help us understand that discipleship is not a promise of a life free from difficulty, but a promise of your presence with us through every difficulty. Grant us the strength to embrace the challenges that come our way, knowing that you will never leave our side.
Help us to find joy in serving you, even when it’s hard. Remind us that the path to eternal life is narrow, and that it requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to deny ourselves.
May we never lose sight of the ultimate goal, which is to be with you in eternity. Give us the courage to carry our cross, to follow in your footsteps, and to trust in your unwavering love, even when the road ahead seems long and arduous.
Thank you for the example of Jesus, who endured suffering and hardship with grace and humility. May we learn from his example and strive to be more like him each and every day.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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