The Cost of Following and the Depth of God’s Love

Dearly Beloved, 

Day 292: Chronological Bible in One Year Devotional -

Scripture Reading: Luke 14:25–35; Luke 15; Luke 16; Luke 17:1–10; John 11:1–37

Following Jesus has always required a cost — a complete surrender of self, comfort, and pride. In Luke 14, Jesus makes it clear that discipleship demands wholehearted devotion. “Whoever does not carry their cross and follow Me cannot be My disciple.” It’s a call to prioritize eternity over everything temporal.

As we move through Luke 15, we are drawn into the heart of the Father through the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. Here we see the contrast between human selfishness and divine compassion. God’s love is relentless, His grace extravagant, and His joy unspeakable when a lost soul returns home.

Luke 16 warns about misplaced priorities — the danger of loving wealth more than righteousness. Jesus shows that true riches are found in eternal values, not in worldly gain. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus reminds us that life’s opportunities to show mercy are brief; eternity is forever.

In Luke 17:1–10, Jesus teaches humility and faithfulness. Serving God is not a favor to Him — it is our duty. And in John 11:1–37, the depth of Jesus’ compassion is revealed at Lazarus’s tomb. Though He knew He would raise His friend, Jesus still wept. His tears show divine empathy — He feels our pain, yet His power transcends it.

Every story in these passages reminds us that God’s love calls for both surrender and faith. He invites us not only to follow Him but also to experience the depth of His mercy and the glory of resurrection hope.

Personal Reflection: Are you willing to count the cost and follow Jesus wholeheartedly? Have you truly embraced His love and shared it with others? Like the prodigal’s father, God waits for us with open arms — but discipleship means walking that same path of love, humility, and obedience daily.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to follow You without reservation, to count the cost of true discipleship, and to love others as You have loved me. Teach me to value what is eternal, to serve humbly, and to trust in Your timing, even when I cannot see the end of the road. Amen.