"If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."
Luke 9:23
Following Jesus starts with one step and continues with daily choices. It isn't just a one-time decision we make when we get baptized. It's something we choose every day, in big and small ways. When Jesus asked people to follow Him, He wasn't looking for part-time helpers. He was calling them to change their whole lives. In Luke 9:23, Jesus makes a big point about the word "daily." He wants us to know that real following happens in everyday moments.
When Jesus says, "Follow me," He means keep following, not just follow once. In John 10:27, when Jesus says, "My sheep follow me," He's talking about something that keeps happening, not something that's done and over. Sometimes, I talk about when I became a Christian like it was the end of the race instead of the beginning. But Jesus wants a faith that keeps moving forward every day, not just a memory from the past.
Following Jesus daily is more like walking than flying. Carrying a cross "daily" doesn't sound very exciting for social media posts. I used to think that growing as a Christian would always feel amazing, with big spiritual moments. But now I see it's more about small, faithful choices: being patient when my driving can be challenging, telling the truth when a small lie would be easier, or sharing what I have when money is tight (Anybody know what I'm talking about?) Following Jesus happens in our everyday lives.
We follow Jesus even in tough times, when our faith is tested and challenges seem overwhelming. We don't bail out of our relationship with Him when circumstances turn difficult, relationships strain, or doubts creep in—these challenging seasons often become where our faith grows the deepest roots. Just as gold is refined by fire, our commitment to following Jesus strengthens when adversity tests us.
Giving up my dreams and plans was not easy. I had it all planned out: Graduate college. Work in a premiere tech company. Rise to the ranks to become the nation’s answer to Steve Jobs. But when God called me into full-time ministry, I understood the assignment. I completely immerse myself into serving the church without guaranteeing a salary, benefits, or a position. Of course, I was thinking of how I’ll be able to support my very young family. Let's just say the Good Shepherd always provided for His sheep. God provides for those who follow Him.
We sometimes think feeling spiritual is the same as actually following Jesus. The great feelings we get at church or a worship concert can trick us. We might believe we are growing as Christians just because we feel good or we’re jumping and singing our favorite praise and worship song. Nothing wrong with that, but it shouldn’t be just THAT. Jesus said real following is about obeying: "If you love me, keep my commands" (John 14:15). Some of my best spiritual growth has happened on regular days when I didn't feel spiritual at all, but still chose to forgive someone or speak the truth.
In his book “Walking with God: Talk to Him. Hear from Him. Really. (2008)”, Max Lucado said, "To walk with God is to walk with a companion who is always present, always faithful, and always leading us toward who we were created to be." Walking with God means embracing a constant companion who never leaves your side, shaping you into who you were meant to be. Like any meaningful relationship, our journey with God isn't about perfection but consistently choosing to move in His direction, even when we stumble. True spiritual growth often happens in those ordinary moments when we choose faith over feeling, making daily decisions that align with God's way.
Godseekers, the decision to follow Christ is a daily sunrise, not a one-time sunset. Each morning brings a fresh opportunity to align our hearts with His purpose. Just as a compass constantly points north, our daily choices—whether in our career decisions, family relationships, or private thoughts—can consistently point to Jesus. The beautiful truth is that He doesn't expect perfection in our journey; He desires our persistent presence. Every "yes" to Jesus, no matter how small, shapes the path of our discipleship into a transformative journey of faith.
Will you follow Jesus today?
Prayer
Dear God, thank You for letting me follow Jesus in big moments and everyday life. I'm sorry for the times I've thought of following You as just a decision I made in the past. Help me take up my cross daily—choosing Your way in every moment today. Remind me that real growth happens in amazing spiritual moments and daily faithful choices. Let each morning be a fresh start to follow Your Son. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Personal Reflection
What parts of your life do you find most challenging to include Jesus in?
How would your day be different if you saw each small choice as part of following Jesus?
Step of Faith
Today, I will pick one routine activity (driving, showering, or cooking) and practice being aware that Jesus is with me, turning an everyday task into a time of following Him.
