Following Jesus

Sometimes life is an uphill climb. It’s hard. As the Bible says, we need to keep our eyes on Jesus as our example (Hebrews 12:2).

Jesus Christ had strong character. While he lived on earth, he had a good reputation with steadfast scriptural principles. And he never changes (Hebrews 13:8). He’s still the same.

How he responded in the Gospels is how he will respond to us today.

When Jesus taught in Nazareth, His hometown, the people remembered him as a boy. Even though he performed some miracles, they didn’t believe he was the Christ. Jesus marveled at their unbelief (Mark 6:6). Does he marvel at our lack of faith in him?

When the disciples worried, Jesus said they had little faith. Their heavenly Father knew of their needs. He would take care of them (Matthew 6:30-33). Do we worry, or trust God?

When Jesus visited Mary and Martha, he told Martha she was too concerned about this life. Mary chose to listen to Jesus’ words—a needful and good thing which would not be taken away from her (Luke 10:38-42). Do we spend time in God’s Word?

When a Roman centurion asked Jesus to “speak the word only” to heal his servant, Jesus was amazed at his faith (Matthew 8:5-10). Is Jesus amazed to see our great faith in him?

When Jesus healed the ten lepers, only one came back to thank him (Luke 17:17). Jesus expected to be thanked. Are we grateful for what God has done for us?

The list could go on and on. The Gospels show us the character of Jesus, and how we should act and react to the circumstances of our lives.

Life can be an uphill climb. Are you following Jesus?

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Until next Friday, may the Lord bless!