The call to follow Jesus with passion is at the same time a solemn vow of discipleship, yet every starter say he/she got walls blocking his/her way. Such examples show that comprehending these obstacles and combating them by turning to faith and scripture is possible and can strengthen one’s relationship with Christ. So here are three typical barriers we face as we seek to go all in with Jesus and how to overcome them.
Fear of the Unknown
Embracing Faith Over Fear
The world is still full of many unknowns, but what is worse is that they are coupled with fears that are hard to overcome and changes which are hard to accept. This idea of venturing out of our comfort zones and taking a chance at a seemingly unknown and unknown future can be pretty scary. However, in the Bible, it is recommended to put our hopes on the Lord and put faith in his providence.
Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse reassures us that God is always with us, providing strength and support as we step out in faith.
Overcoming Fear Through Prayer
The use of prayer as method to eliminate the effect of fear cannot be overemphasized. Thus, faith can be interpreted as a key to find courage and go forward all the time seeking the God’s presence and support.
Philippians 4:6-7 advises, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Attachment to Earthly Possessions
Shifting Focus to Eternal Treasures
The fulcrum of the third problem is as follows: Sin which hinders us from going all in with Jesus is worldly possessions and material wealth which we hold dearly. Jesus spoke a lot concerning the felicity of the world and the beauty of a life centered and cherished Him.
In Matthew 6:19-21, He said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Practicing Generosity
If we try to adopt more generous attitudes in our lives, then we shall be able to let go of some of the material things which we always cling to. When individuals and the churches offer their help to others or sponsor families asking for help, then people change their priorities from engaging in the acquisition of the wealth to helping their neighbors as Christ taught them.
2 Corinthians 9:7 encourages us, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
The Influence of Societal Pressures
Standing Firm in Faith
Wish for acceptance due to various reasons can also pull us back from following Jesus Christ. Specifically, the standards set in the world today are not always compatible with biblical values, and choosing between the two can be quite a task. Nevertheless, the Bible says we are required to stand and not grow weary or be influenced by the culture of this world.
Romans 12:2 advises, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Finding Strength in Christian Community
Belonging to the group allows one to be firm with the societal norms since it is a Christ-based group. Other believers can offer support, challenge or even prod when needed and steer the person when necessary when he or she is in the Christian faith.
Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of community: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Conclusion
Jesus implies a decisiveness about committing one’s life to God and faith and often states great barriers to follow them, such as fear, love to materialistic things, and societal norms. By trusting in God’s promises, shifting our focus to eternal treasures, and finding strength in Christian community, we can deepen our commitment to Christ.
Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 16:24-25: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” Embrace the journey with faith, knowing that true life is found in fully following Jesus.