“For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” – Luke 14:28
Understanding the Cost of Discipleship
As we listen to the teachings in the Bible, we recognize the importance of counting the cost, especially when it comes to being a disciple of Christ. Jesus calls us to follow Him, but He also reminds us that this journey requires sacrifice and commitment. In our lives, it’s essential for us to understand that discipleship involves a relationship with Christ that may challenge us. We must count the cost of our devotion, which means prioritizing our spiritual growth over earthly desires. This often leads us to reflect on what truly matters in our lives and encourages us to step into our faith with commitment and courage.
Luke 14:26
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.” – Luke 14:26
Matthew 10:37
“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” – Matthew 10:37
Mark 8:34
“And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.'” – Mark 8:34
Luke 9:62
“Jesus said to him, ‘No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.'” – Luke 9:62
Revelation 3:16
“So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” – Revelation 3:16
The Importance of Preparation
In our daily lives, counting the cost leads us to a space of preparation. Whether we are setting spiritual goals, starting a ministry, or even planning for our families, preparation is key. When we prepare with our hearts and minds aligned to God’s will, we are better equipped for the challenges ahead. By keeping God at the center of our plans, we acknowledge that we are dependent on His strength. Together, we need to be intentional about our preparation and the decisions we make as they echo our commitment to God.
Proverbs 21:5
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” – Proverbs 21:5
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” – James 1:5
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” – Proverbs 16:3
Luke 14:31
“Or what king, going out to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and deliberate whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand?” – Luke 14:31
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
Recognizing Our Limitations
As we engage in the journey of faith, it’s vital to understand our limitations. Recognizing our limitations allows us to depend more on God’s grace, power, and guidance. As we assess the cost involved in pretty much every project or responsibility, we must remember that we are human, limited in capacity, yet thriving in God’s boundless grace. It’s about embracing the fact that we can’t do everything by our own strength and that it’s okay to ask for help. We are encouraged to share our burdens with others in faith while leaning on the Lord’s strength to take actionable steps towards our goals.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1
Romans 8:26
“Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” – Romans 8:26
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
The Cost of Choices
Each decision we make comes with a cost. The choices we encounter daily impact our faith, relationships, and futures. Counting the cost means evaluating the potential outcomes of our decisions and understanding how they align with God’s purpose for our lives. When we aim to make choices rooted in love and faith, we position ourselves for blessings. We remind ourselves that every choice must reflect our relationship with God and the love we have for others. Together, we must lift each other up to make wise choices that are pleasing to Him.
Deuteronomy 30:19
“I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live.” – Deuteronomy 30:19
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” – Galatians 6:7
Proverbs 14:12
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” – Proverbs 14:12
Isaiah 55:8
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.” – Isaiah 55:8
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Learning Through Experience
Life experiences shape us in profound ways, and each moment offers lessons as we count the cost of our faith journey. As we reflect on our past decisions, we gain wisdom that helps us approach future challenges. The stories we share and the lessons we learn together strengthen our faith community. By understanding our experiences, we can uplift one another in our journey of faith, reminding each other that trials often lead to growth and enlightenment, and that God is present with us in every circumstance.
Romans 5:3-4
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” – Romans 5:3-4
James 1:2-4
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” – James 1:2-4
1 Peter 1:6-7
“In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” – 1 Peter 1:6-7
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Psalms 119:71
“It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.” – Psalm 119:71
Encouragement in Decision Making
When counting the cost is difficult, we can find encouragement in Scripture and through our community of believers. Seeking reassurance in God’s promises helps us feel supported as we choose paths that align with our faith. Together, we remind each other of God’s unwavering love and guidance in our decision-making processes. By surrounding ourselves with supportive friends, family, and church members, we can find comfort knowing that we travel this journey together, and we are not alone in our choices.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Proverbs 27:17
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Isaiah 40:31
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Romans 15:5-6
“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus.” – Romans 15:5-6
Final Thoughts
Counting the cost is much more than just evaluating risks or making decisions. It’s learning to embrace our commitment to faith and our relationship with God. Each step we take in this journey requires thoughtfulness, reflection, and courage. Together, we acknowledge that the life of a disciple is not always easy, but it is filled with purpose and rewards that far outweigh the challenges. As we grow, let us seek to encourage one another, share our experiences, and learn from them, so we can make choices aligned with God’s will.
If you find yourself wanting to reflect further, consider exploring topics like knowing when to quit or living intentionally. Both reveal more ways to seek wisdom, understanding, and growth in our faith.
As we walk together, let’s commit our hearts to serving God and counting the cost with joy and purpose in the journey of faith.