Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP
2 Corinthians 11:27
 V.27: I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked.
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” This was a quote by missionary Jim Elliot who was killed attempting to evangelize the Huaorani people of Ecuador. His quote was challenging for me in my perspective of sacrifice and my giving to the kingdom. Jim lived by the quote he had in his journal and ultimately his death led to the people coming to know God later on. My mentor at the Christian fellowship would often quote this line to students and it has become a motto for me. As we read throughout Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, we get a glimpse into  just some of the many trials he faced in his journeys to preach the gospel.
         
The church in Corinth had grown in numbers but struggled with divisions and discord. Many had questioned Paul’s authority and position as well as lost sight of what mattered. Paul in Chapter 11 asks the people to seek the truth but clearly shows forth the costs and sacrifices made for him to serve them. It meant Gentile churches providing support, and the countless trials he endured in order to make Jesus Christ known. As we see in the verse of focus, Paul had faced sleepless nights and suffered physically to further the teachings of God. It may seem like Paul was boasting but Paul wanted it to be clear that he had and others had given much to further God’s glory. Far from just talking about God’s love, Paul had followed the Great Commission and his life spoke to the fact Christian life was not based on blessings and comfort all the time. Hardship was in fact part of his calling.

The big question I have for you today is what has the gospel and walk with Jesus cost you? Is it just simply a couple hours on Sunday at church? A small part of your salary? A few moments of praying and reading the Bible? When the Great Commission was given to us by Jesus to make disciples of all nations, we see in the life of people like Jim Elliot and Paul, unforeseen and great trials. The cost was high but the reward greater in the grand scheme of things. Life with God is eternal and the ultimate joy. My prayer for you all is that we never lose sight of that end goal and pushing to see others know Him. It’s in Christ that joy is found and it makes the pain we face worthwhile. May our sacrifices be a great testament to others like Paul. Blessings to you all.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father I ask that you give me strength to face any and all challenges in my life with faith and the willingness to give all that I have for Your Kingdom. Amen.
 
Thought for the day
What has actually been the cost of me following Jesus and am I holding back in my pursuit of Jesus?

Arun Chacko
The Mar Thoma Church, Staten Island

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