The Right Perspective

Jesus knew that a cross awaited Him. That He would be persecuted, mocked, and die a painful death. But nothing would keep Him from obeying His Father, and doing His will. He had the right priorities. And the right commitment.

When they heard these things, the disciples tried to argue with Him. Peter even “began to rebuke him.” But Jesus knew that Peter was thinking like the people of this world, with its pleasures and temporary rewards. He wanted them to think about the things of God, and His eternal kingdom.

These men had been following Him. But He wanted them to realize that this was a lifetime commitment that continued even after His death. This means denying themselves and taking up their cross every day.

These truths apply to us today. For following Jesus means being willing to lay aside our own selfish interests, even if the world around us encourages us to indulge ourselves and be slaves to our human impulses. It means being willing to lay aside our rights and commit ourselves completely to serve and live for Jesus.

It means realizing that “whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it.”

Think about how these truths apply to you. To keep your life in perspective, ask yourself what “things” of this world are more important than your very soul. Seek to focus on the kingdom that will never fade away. Invest your resources in the things that matter. Think about the eternal perspective of your life. And commit yourself to following Jesus.