"Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, 'If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple'" (Luke 14:25-27).

Jesus did not coerce people to follow Him. He did not entice disciples with promises of wealth or assurances of a comfortable life. Just the opposite. He was clear and exacting as He explained the cost of discipleship. Following Jesus requires loving Him more than those dearest to you - your family. Following Him requires loving Him more than life itself. Following Jesus requires accepting the burden of self-sacrifice and obediently following His teachings. Being a Christian is not about you doing what you want to do for Jesus; it is about doing what He wants of you. Count the cost and pay the price; otherwise, you cannot be His disciple. This is the teaching of Jesus. Make this your way of life and you will truly be His disciple.