In the Gospel of John, chapter 12 and verse 24, Jesus says something very profound, – “ I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.” We can all suggest of course that Jesus is implying this statement for himself, that through his death and resurrection he has given many new life! And it’s true! Amen!
But Jesus goes deeper than this. Are you ready to follow him? Are you willing to follow the example of Jesus?
God is carrying out his redemption mission here on earth and it involves us to also lay aside our old lives and follow Jesus. When we decide to follow Jesus, we say ‘goodbye’ to our old lives and we live for him. He has promised us that in following him, he will give us life and life in abundance! There is so much joy in knowing the Saviour and when we do follow him, he leads us on a journey with unexpected twists and turns. On this journey we are always learning, and one area is of continual surrendering of ourselves and of pride!
There are many characters in the bible we see learning these and other valuable lessons. Abraham, Moses, Joseph and more, whom along their journeys had to fully ‘die’ to their ambitions and dreams and allow God to use them for His purposes! When we give Jesus full control of our lives, He then takes over and uses us for the purposes He has set out for us. Sometimes it is uncomfortable, lonely for a time, tiring, testing but are you willing to follow the Master at whatever cost?
“Yes Lord, I will go wherever you send me, let me carry my cross as you did and follow you all the days of my life – for the glory and purposes of your name”.
