But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you. They would say, “There’s the person who started that building and couldn’t afford to finish it!”… So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. [Luke 14:28-30,33 (NLT)]
No sacrifice should be too great for Him who gave Himself for us. [Harry Ironside]
Intrigued by the “starting from” price in the ads for a new community, some curious friends toured one of their model homes. Seeming to have every feature they wanted, the house appeared to be in their price range. It was only after sitting down with the salesman to go over the purchase details that they discovered the true cost. The granite countertops, energy-efficient stainless appliances, and pull-out pantry seen in the model home were not included in the base price, nor were the paddle fans, bar sink, under cabinet lighting, pool, pool cage, rheostats, recessed lighting, crown molding, or tray ceiling in the dining room. After adding their desired upgrades to the “starting from” price, the couple realized the “ending up” cost was too great for them.
When Jesus said “count the cost,” He wasn’t giving us a list of options with a matching pricelist. Although God’s grace is free, we must agree to certain terms if we’re going to accept His salvation. Counting the cost for following Jesus is like giving the builder unlimited access to our bank and investment accounts and then allowing him to determine the size, design, location, materials, amenities, and décor of our new house! Knowing the cost would be greater than the amount we were prepared to spend, that’s not a deal we’d make with any builder.
While we wouldn’t do that for a house, what is the price of a soul? Being a disciple of Jesus is giving Him unlimited access to our lives and assets. As the One who determines the finished product, He takes our old selves and rebuilds us as the people we’re meant to be (which may not be what we thought we wanted to be). Having given God carte blanche, we don’t have an option or upgrades list. We can’t say, “I’ll take the love and forgiveness along with church attendance and Bible study but I’ll skip the self-denial and obedience” or “I’ll keep my independence and pride and take a pass on sacrifice, generosity, and evangelism.”
Consecrating our lives to the Lord is not a decision to be made carelessly or thoughtlessly. Nevertheless, as costly as it may be, choosing to follow Jesus is an excellent value and the best investment we could ever make. Instead of a luxurious new house on earth, we get one in heaven along with a new identity, heart, mind, family, future, and purpose.
For God no cost is too high. Anything can be sacrificed if only we may please Him. Let us daily learn to be obedient children. [Watchman Nee]
Devotions of the Heart 