The Thought For Today

Encouraging You Through God's Word

     Unlike the current generation, the majority of us who are thirty years old and older realize that nothing in life is free. Whatever you desire to have in life, you and I have learned that you must work for it. You do not wake up, check your bank account, and “discover” a thousand dollars was deposited in your account. If you desire to have anything in this world, “It’s Going to Cost You Something”.

     For the unbeliever, what will it cost you if you do not surrender your life to Jesus? The most critical thing to consider is that you will live a life separated from Jesus forever. In the Word of God, Romans 1:21 says, “Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused.”  In addition to this, as Jesus was talking to His disciples, he said to them in Matthew 16:24-26, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?’” If you continue on your path of rebellion, “It’s Going to Cost You Something”.

     For the believer, what will it cost you to finish this life well? I hear the words, sacrifice and strong finish! The life of the believer is full of sacrifices such as our time, desires, lifestyle, and so much more. But I encourage you today to remain focused on Jesus. Hebrews 12:1 reminds us, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” In order for the believer to finish strong, he or she must remember James 1:12.  It says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” Remember, if you sacrifice and finish strong, “It’s Going to Cost You Something”.

     Search yourself and go deeper:

  1. For the unbeliever, why haven’t you surrendered your life to Jesus?
  2. For the doubter, what else does Jesus have to do in order for you to believe that He is the Son of God?
  3. For the believer, how will you stay strengthened while knowing “It’s Going to Cost You Something”?