Word for the day by Christian education forum
Discipleship - Readiness to Die with Christ
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 6:3-10
Key Verse: “Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses.” 2 Cor. 6:4
DEVOTION
What does it mean to truly follow Christ? The answer could be to give everything we are and have to Him. But then we must ask ourselves - Does our life of discipleship merely serve as an example of endurance, or does it clearly proclaim the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? In 2 Cor. 6:3-10, Paul outlines the paradoxes of Christian discipleship. He writes that he is “dying, and yet we live” and “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.” His life demonstrates that following Christ means being ready to endure suffering, misunderstanding, and even death.
Discipleship is not just a call to endure life’s challenges with patience. It is a call to reflect Christ through those very challenges. Every trial faced becomes an opportunity to declare the Gospel, not just in words but in the way we live. Are we ready to take up this call, even when it demands our comfort, security, or life itself?
The ultimate fruit of discipleship must be Christ Himself. As we die to ourselves daily - our pride, selfishness, and worldly desires - we give room for Christ to shine through us. Paul’s life shows that suffering for the Gospel is not about glorifying pain but about glorifying Christ through it. This readiness to die with Christ also unites us with one another. Whether rich or poor, educated or uneducated, strong or weak, we are all called to the same radical surrender. There is no distinction in this, for the one we serve is Christ alone.
As disciples, we often fall short of this high standard. Yet, even in our imperfections, we can still be used as a vessel for His glory. Through our weakness, His strength is revealed. Through our surrender, His power transforms lives.
PRAYER