Discipleship is a vital part of our Christian walk, but it’s not always as simple or comfortable as we might think. Here are four challenging truths about discipleship:
1. **It Requires Sacrifice**
True discipleship involves a cost. Jesus said, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily" (Luke 9:23). Following Jesus means letting go of comfort, convenience, and sometimes even relationships.
2. **It’s a Lifelong Commitment**
Discipleship isn’t just a phase—it’s a lifetime journey. Spiritual growth takes time, and there will be seasons of struggle. But God calls us to be faithful, even when it’s hard.
3. **You Can’t Do It Alone**
We often try to grow spiritually on our own, but discipleship is meant to happen in community. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." We need others to encourage and challenge us.
4. **It Will Challenge Your Priorities**
Discipleship forces us to examine what truly matters. Jesus said, "Seek first the kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33), meaning we must prioritize God’s will over our own desires. This truth can be uncomfortable as it often requires us to shift our focus and let go of distractions.