They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. (Rev. 14:4)
Are you willing to follow the Lord anywhere? I think most believers want to say yes. But how often have we said one thing and done another. Following the Lord usually requires sacrifice of some kind. Maybe we have to sacrifice comfort, proximity to family, or familiarity. Or perhaps we must settle for less pay or selling our dream home.
Today’s verse mentions “firstfruits,” which carries with it the idea of sacrifice. The early church would have been very familiar with this concept of giving to the Lord the first and the best. Are we willing to give the Lord the first and the best of our lives and, in doing so, follow wherever he may lead?
Several years ago, my husband and I felt the Lord asking us to follow him to live and minister in a city I had absolutely no desire to live in. I wrestled with him for a long time about what he was asking of us. I told him that I did not want to go where he was leading. But, after much prayer and surrender, we said yes. Looking back now, I’m so grateful that we followed him. It ended up being a wonderful season of ministry that resulted in much growth in my own spiritual journey and many lasting and life-giving relationships. Following the Lamb is always worth it.
Ask the Lord where he wants you to follow him today.
Deborah Rhodes is colead pastor of Parkside Church in Greenville, SC. She is passionate about studying and teaching God’s Word.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
