“And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62
Jesus made this statement in response to some people who said they wanted to follow Him but had other things they wished to do first, like spend more time with their friends, or wait until their parents were dead. They claimed they wanted to follow Jesus and be His disciples, but they wanted to do it on their terms.
How often people today are moved in a service, convicted of their sins, and cry out to the Lord for forgiveness. But when faced with trials and discouragements, or when realizing they must give up some things to follow Jesus, they are not willing to pay the full price.
To fully follow Jesus, we must be willing to lay aside everything else, and give ourselves wholly to Him. It’s all or nothing with Him. But when we learn to love Him with all our hearts, it is no sacrifice to give all to Him.
There is no turning back, once we have decided to follow Him. There will be obstacles and discouragements, but we can rest assured, that He will always be there for us, giving us the strength that we need.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to never look back, but follow you fully.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
“And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” (Luke 1:33 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.)
The family of Jacob, or the descendants of Jacob are the same as the children of Israel. This was the name by which the ancient people of God were known, It is the same as saying that he would reign over His own church and people forever. He’s in charge. He guides them and defends them. He has given laws for them to follow.
This scripture addresses Mary when she was told she was with child. Mary had seen turmoil in her world; Kingdoms rising and falling all around. The child she would give birth to would form an everlasting kingdom.
I’m so glad I have an interest in His Kingdom. He shall reign among his people on earth until the end of time, and be their King forever. His Kingdom is the only Kingdom that will never end. How exciting to think about! You can be a part of this kingdom also.
Prayer: Thank You Lord, that You have made me a part of Your unending Kingdom. One day we will be with You forever. It’s hard for my mind to imagine being with You forever!
Devotion by Kaye Singleton