Following Jesus means learning not only how to begin the journey of faith – but how to finish it well. It is easy to feel enthusiastic when everything is new, when prayers seem to be answered quickly and the road ahead seems clear. But faithfulness is revealed over time, through disappointments, seemingly unanswered questions, difficult circumstances and seasons when we feel tired or discouraged.
Following Jesus means learning to persevere when the journey becomes difficult. Just look back over a year or so … Faith does not mean that life will always be easy or that we will never feel tired, discouraged or uncertain. It means choosing to trust Jesus and continue walking with Him, even when (especially when) the way ahead is hard to understand.
Following Jesus means learning to live – whatever the circumstances, because we have eternity in view. This life, with all its joys, sorrows and disappointments, is not the end of our story. God has promised us a future beyond this world, and that promise should shape how we live today.
Following Jesus means learning to stand for truth – especially when doing so is uncomfortable or costly. We all know that remaining silent seems easier than risking criticism, disagreement or rejection. Yet becoming like Jesus means recognising when truth needs to be spoken and when injustice must not be ignored.
Following Jesus means learning not only to live differently, but also to have the courage to tell others why. Sharing our faith doesn’t mean ‘having all the answers’ or ‘being able to explain everything about Christianity.’ It simply means being willing to tell people what Jesus has done in our lives.
Following Jesus means learning to become generous with what God has entrusted to us. Generosity is not simply about giving money. It is about recognising that everything we have — our time, abilities, possessions, opportunities and resources — ultimately comes from God.
