“So don’t follow me without considering what it will cost you. For who would construct a house before first sitting down to estimate the cost to complete it? Otherwise he may lay the foundation and not be able to finish. The neighbors will ridicule him, saying, ‘Look at him! He started to build but couldn’t complete it!’ Have you ever heard of a commander who goes out to war without first sitting down with strategic planning to determine the strength of his army to win the war against a stronger opponent? If he knows he doesn’t stand a chance of winning the war, the wise commander will send out delegates to ask for the terms of peace. Likewise, unless you surrender all to me, giving up all you possess, you cannot be one of my disciples.” Luke 14:28-33 TPT
It is easy for us to say that we love Jesus, but do we consider the cost that at some point, we may have to pay to follow Him? Throughout the world, in many areas, those who love the Lord are not free to worship and serve him. His desire is for us to build our relationship with him, starting with a solid foundation. Every aspect of our lives should begin with a plan, as to how we are to begin, with an anticipated finish, all the while strengthening our faith along the way.
In this passage, Jesus is speaking about prayerful planning, in order to prevent poor planning. He often encouraged those around him to include careful calculations in each of their plans, from the beginning until completion. He encourages us to pray over everything. In Philippians 4:6, we are told to ‘Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God, and it can be ours for the asking.
Heavenly Father, help us to remember to begin with a solid foundation, and continue to grow within the strength of your Word, and be ever so thankful.
In Christ Love
Margaret