COST OF BEING A CHRISTIAN

Christian walk is not some walk in the park. Christ demands from us our heart, our mind and our soul, while walking with Him. As Paul calls it “The Living Sacrifice” – Romans 12:1-2.

The concept of self-denial in Christian discipleship is, not just unique, but is totally radical, in its thought, and in its practice. In simple world, there is a huge cost to be paid, to walk on the narrow way. Our willingness to follow self-denial, as demanded by our Redeemer is, one of the critical facts, that reveals our heart, and our intentions behind, our decision to follow Jesu Christ of Nazareth.

Jesus talking with His disciples and the followers, said, “And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” “33 So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.” “21 Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” 22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” – Luke 9:23–24; 14:33; Mark 10:21-22. Not easy to walk this path; but, the LORD will help us.

The Tappan brothers of New York city, are a very fine example of those willing to walk with Christ, in an uncompromising way. As history records, “On 16th  December 1835, fire destroys much of Arthur and Lewis Tappan’s business on New York City’s, Pearl Street. The evangelical brothers also lose business because of their strong opposition to slavery, and come close to financial ruin. However they will tighten their belts, salvage their fortunes, and repay all of their debts with interest in eighteen months.”

Tappan brothers stood for what is right, in the face of, what was evidently wrong, and sinful – the slavery. They dared to walk with their LORD, not minding the cost to be paid. The LORD did stand with them, and upheld their faith and trust in Him. How about us? May the LORD help us to always choose to follow the LORD, no matter the cost; and to stand for what is right, even when no one is willing. Even so, the LORD help us.