“If your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life lame, than, having your two feet, to be cast into hell, where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched” (Mark 9:45-46).
We live in a time where outward things are considered to be of ultimate importance. The ultimate importance is living in peace with the One who made you. Knowing that this life is limited and short, why do you cling to what is temporary when what is eternal has been offered to you? Enter into the struggle to become what He will make of you. Walk willingly with the Lord who is creating in you to be like Jesus.
Lord, I do not see clearly nor do I understand what all of this means. I have heard and believe that You have spoken the words of eternal life. Guide me so that I do not stop with the things of this world but press on toward the prize. Help me to walk by faith even though I do not yet see what my heart longs for. Guide me to live according to Your word no matter what the cost to this temporary body You have given me.
Lord Jesus, at first these words seem so harsh, but they make sense. You have come to complete me in You. I do not even know what this means, but I do know that I have my part. Help me to be rid of whatever it is that would get in the way of my trusting in You above all things. Teach me how to be faithful and to be willing to pay whatever the cost to complete the journey You have placed before me. Amen.
