18th July 2026
Alex Buabeng-Korsah
TOPIC: COUNT THE COST
THEME SCRIPTURE: "Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'" — Luke 9:23 (NIV)
PREPARATORY QUESTION
Have you embraced the cost of following Christ, or are you trying to follow Him on your own terms?
Jesus never hid the demands of discipleship. He did not promise comfort, popularity, or an easy path. Instead, He called every follower to deny self, carry the cross daily, and follow Him without reservation. The invitation to salvation is free, but the call to discipleship is costly.
Many want the crown, but few are willing to carry the cross. We celebrate God's promises yet resist His process. We desire His blessings but struggle to surrender our ambitions, pride, and personal preferences. Christ does not ask for part of your life—He demands all of it.
Jesus made it unmistakably clear: "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62). A divided heart cannot faithfully follow a single Master. Discipleship requires steadfast commitment, not occasional enthusiasm.
The apostle Paul echoed this truth when he declared, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). Following Jesus means allowing His will to replace your own. It is a daily decision to die to self so that Christ is seen in your thoughts, words, and actions.
The cross is not merely a symbol to admire—it is a life to embrace. Every day presents a choice: satisfy the flesh or submit to the Spirit; seek your glory or pursue God's; preserve your comfort or obey His voice.
Key Takeaway
True discipleship requires daily surrender. You cannot follow Christ wholeheartedly while clinging to the 'self".
Do not reduce Christianity to a weekly routine or a collection of religious activities. Christ is not looking for admirers; He is calling disciples. Count the cost, then follow Him without turning back. Nothing you surrender for Christ can compare to what you gain in Him.
Remain blessed.
FURTHER READING:
Luke 9:23; Luke 9:62; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 3:7–8; Matthew 16:24–26.
QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD
1. What is Christ asking you to surrender today?
2. Are there areas where you are following Jesus on your own terms?
3. What does taking up your cross look like in your current season of life?
PRAYER
Father, teach me to deny myself and follow Christ wholeheartedly. Give me the courage to surrender every area of my life to Your authority. Help me to value Your will above my comfort and Your glory above my ambitions. May my life reflect the sacrifice and obedience of Jesus each day. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.