Doing whatever it takes to follow Jesus...

Father, your creation declares your greatness and lovingkindness, encouraging statements of pure truth in our daily walk... As Christians I feel we've become terrified of appearing judgmental, intolerant, or unkind such that we've started confusing worldly niceness with biblical love. Real love does not hide the truth to spare someone's feelings. What can we do about it? How about evaluating what we read and what we see and then measuring our observations against the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. For we see that Jesus quoted scripture often and then followed up with corrective actions for those with the heart to change their selfish ways and turn to you, the Father, our Creator. If we're followers, we're compelled to remind ourselves why we changed, so we can then help others obey the gospel, the good news; Jesus said, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." (Luke 9:23) Lord, may you guide my words and deeds as I seek to impact others on behalf of Jesus, encouraging self, and then encouraging others willing to change by denying themselves and doing whatever it takes to follow in the footsteps of Jesus… Thank you, Jesus, for showing us that you are the way, the truth, and the life; THE answer for those committed to seeking the truth in all things!