Every good and perfect gift….. has a price tag. As I walk around from shop to shop looking for the perfect gift to give someone this Christmas, I am reminded that each item has a price tag and that I have a budget. The items that I deem wonderful and perfect for someone always seem to be over my budget. As a mill about, I am reminded of Luke 14:28, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it?”When you want to purchase something of worth you should always first look at the cost. You must decide what all it is going to cost you and what you will have to sacrifice in order to purchase something that has such a high price tag.
Following Jesus is very similar to shopping on a budget at Christmas. You must weigh the cost and be willing to sacrifice. Assess the cost. What is the first thing you do when you find something you want to buy? Look at the price tag. It’s going to cost you relationships – friends, family, and co-workers. Are you willing to sacrifice? It might cost you possessions or things – job, lifestyle, money and even a certain standard of living. It will most definitely cost you some time. What price have you paid to be a disciple of the King’s?
Luke 9:62 says, “Jesus replied, ‘No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the service in the kingdom of God.’”When you choose God, it is for keeps – there are no layaway plans or returns! Mark 8:34, “Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: ‘If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.’”Would you die for Jesus? You must be willing to die for Him. If you won’t live for Him today, you won't die for him tomorrow! Take a good look at the price tag and make sure you are willing to pay the price!