A discipled life is a disciplined life !

As I read the passages in Luke 13 and 14, it amazes me how often Jesus needed to correct those who thought they understood the way to salvation.  It reminds me of the passage in Proverbs 14:12 and again in Proverbs 16:25,

       There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.

This passage very appropriately bears repeating.

In Luke 13 and 14, Jesus exposed errors in doctrine and practice, and invited all to repent. The numerous references to the ‘kingdom of God’ were to inspire, instruct, correct and guide.  His disciplines promote compassion, sacrifice and humility.  And for all who accepted His teachings, He gave strict instruction regarding the cost of being a disciple…His disciple. 

"If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.  Luke 14:26

And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. Luke 14:27

So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple. Luke 14:33

Against the backdrop of Jesus’ teachings, I can hear the echoes of, ‘there’s a way that seems right to a man’. The truth He exposes is that there’s only one way to salvation and kingdom living and He is that way!  In these passages He uses very strong language to simply express that He is to be first in our life and appropriately so, as it was by the shredding of His blood that the way of salvation was made.

Are you disciplined enough to follow His way?  Are you truly willing to accept the sacrifice of your plans, your desires, and your concerns to follow after His?  It fascinates me how many today clothe their plans in the robe of this phrase, ‘The Lord is leading me’ and in their processes completely miss the disciplines of discipleship.  Not your way, His Way!  Not what you want to do, it’s what He has for you!  His cross, not your comfort!

This denying of oneself is completely foreign to our human nature and self evaluation for rightly aligning our motives and desires doesn’t work.  Our day-to-day life experiences, our dreams, plans and desires need to be aligned constantly against the Word of God!  

For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12

With each passing year, I’m more aware of my need for my Savior.  And I’m more aware of His grace and mercy and sustaining power to keep me as I humble myself to follow His way!  A discipled life is a disciplined life and there’s only one way in His kingdom….His Way!

Be blessed.