As hard as it can be, following Christ wholeheartedly can mean leaving people and other things we love behind. True discipleship divides the sold-outs, who are all in, and the sell-outs, who do whatever is better for them in the moment. Many people who call themselves “Christians” will only follow Him when it is convenient, when they don’t feel they have to give up or change anything. Others are simply complacent; they don’t want to do the work. Any time following Jesus gets uncomfortable, they become unfaithful, they do their own thing. Even when the division, the loss, feels like it might be tearing you apart, keep your eyes on God. Remind yourself what this is all about. The eternal spiritual relationship with God as your Father is more important than any temporary physical relationship on earth, as hard as that can be to hear.

Consider these questions as you reflect on today’s reading:

What do you think Jesus means by, “I have come to set the world on fire”?

How might you have grown complacent in your journey with Jesus?

What has it cost you to follow Him?