The Importance of Keeping Our Lives Focused on Jesus

“Whoever is not willing to carry the cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Those who try to hold on to their lives will give up true life. Those who give up their lives for me will hold on to true life.” — Matthew 10: 38-39

Following Jesus is not easy. People who truly want to follow Him will have to give up the things they want. If they do, Jesus says they will receive true life. Receiving true life means inheriting the kingdom of heaven. Even if they have to die, Jesus promises it will be worth it.

Followers also should not want to live their best lives now but strive to let go of the things of this world. It could include letting go of the desire to be rich, wanting a huge house, or wanting an expensive car. Wanting or having these things is not sinful unless we choose them over Jesus. If we do, then it can be a problem. These desires can prevent us from serving God. We can get stuck and focused on the objects of the world. It is easy to do because we are sinful people (Romans 3:23).

False teachers and non-believers tell us the things of the earth are important. The truth is they are not. There is no security in material things because they do not last forever since they can be destroyed by moths or stolen by thieves (Matthew 6:19-20). Therefore, we want to strive to stay focused on eternal life because it lasts forever. Once we receive it from God, it can never be taken away from us.

Prayer of the day:

Dear heavenly Father,

Help us to stay focused on Jesus and His promise of heaven. He is the way to receive life that lasts forever. Nothing on earth can truly satisfy us because it can be destroyed or stolen. We need that daily reminder because we can forget. We are sinful people that need Your saving grace. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!