At the end of every month, millionaires and single moms alike look at the books to examine the bottom line. A rich man wants to know if his well-planned investments yielded a profit. A single mom on a budget is praying she has enough pennies to pay the bills.

When I read Matthew 19, I see men who’ve left it all behind to follow Jesus and want to know the bottom line. You see, the disciples expected a much different Messiah – one who would set them free from political oppression. Now, their pockets are empty, and they are wondering, “What’s in it for me? Is it really worth it?”

I must confess I’ve asked the same questions in the quiet of my heart. If I say no to selfishness and choose to serve the Savior with everything, will I regret the sacrifice? Will I live a scarce life? Does living “sold out” for Jesus really satisfy?

Jesus is telling us to count the cost. Discipleship requires us to forsake everything to follow Him. But, the forsaking doesn’t begin in our bank accounts. We must lay our very hearts on the altar.

Jesus offered up His life for me on a cross. The bottom line is I owe Him everything. Because of Christ, I am rich in joy. I am overflowing with love. I have inexplicable peace.

I’m sharing “The Bottom Line” at Love God Greatly today.

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