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"Sit down and figure the cost." Luke 14:28
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In the Word Jesus said, "when you're "planning to build . . . sit down and figure the cost."
Have you ever said, "I prayed for something and now God has given it to me. However, did I truly count the cost it would be when God released it to me." (No, not always). When we pray there are conditions that comes with God's promises. Our life from death to new life in Christ was bought and paid for by Christ, but there is a price of obedience that we must walk in as we build on that foundation. Everything God gives us requires maintenance. God blessed Adam and Eve in the Garden, but He also told them to take care of it.
The Word also says, "when much is given, much is required." We want the promises without the conditions and it does not work that way. If we are going to lay down our life and take up our cross and follow Him, there has to be a surrender of our will to do what He asks of us. The most wonderful provision is the power of the Holy Spirit that helps us walk out our salvation.
Remember, some of the hardest challenges will be people you know and love. As you walk with God don't expect everyone to praise and rejoice with you over what God has and is doing in your life. Satan will use anything or anyone he can to dishearten what God is producing through you. At one point they might affirm you and the next minute they might speak harm about you. You know you prayed and trusted God when it looked like there was no end in sight or no way out of your circumstances. You also know that you never deserved the goodness of God, but you bless and praise Him for His ultimate sacrifice that He has provided, so that you might walk in faith with Him.
Honestly, it is not always those outside the ranks of God that will stab you from behind; betrayal often comes from within your own ranks. John the beloved was on one side of Jesus and Judas who betrayed Him was on the other side. John was close enough to lay his head on Jesus' breast while Judas left and later betrayed Him with a kiss. Be aware of who is sitting at your table!
However, as painful as it is to be criticized by people, it's worse to get away from God's will He has ordained for you. God has told us in His Word, " beware when all men speak well of you." The Apostle Paul said,"I am not here to please men, but to please God." As good as it feels to be affirmed and applauded, at some point you need to stop and ask, "How much am I willing to sacrifice?" Your answer will determine your course for life!
"when you're "planning to build . . . sit down and figure the cost." But with that cost comes the Power to overcome!
Psalms 118:8 "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man."
Joan Buchanan
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