Why Not? (2)

19 / Sun – Read Psalm 55:22

Overview: Once you’ve seen all that Jesus is and does for us, perhaps the question to answer is not, “Why should I follow Jesus?” but instead, “Why not? Why not believe? Why not follow Jesus?”

20 / Mon – Confusing times  |  Read John 6:60-69

People in the gospels followed Jesus for all the blessings he gave, but some turned away when the miracles became less frequent, and his teachings were too difficult. Have you been tempted to quit because following Jesus costs you something? Jesus asked a piercing question to his disciples in v66. What was Simon Peter’s response? If Jesus asked the same question of you right now, what would your (honest) answer be and why?

21 / Tue – Even if undeserved  |  Read Job 1:20-22 / Job 2:9-10 / Job 13:15a / Job 42:10-14

Job was a wealthy man. He was also generous, he shunned evil, and he was a godly example to his family and everyone who knew him. God described him as blameless and upright. Then, in two swift blows, Satan was allowed to ruin Job. Even in his confusion and grief and questions, he still trusted God, proving to Satan that not everyone follows the Lord only for His blessings. What do you value most highly? …your health? …your family? …your bank account? …the accolades of others? If you lost it all, would you still love Jesus? Would you continue to follow him? If so, why?

22 / Wed – Even if suffering for doing God’s will  |  Read Acts 16:22-40

This may be a familiar story, but stop and consider how terrible it was for these godly men to be unjustly accused, severely beaten, and thrown in jail. Were they still awake at midnight because their pain was so acute? What do you do when you can’t sleep? You may be in a painful situation, wondering why God has allowed it. Like Paul and Silas, will you resolve to trust and praise God anyway for who He is? It will change everything for you, and maybe for others listening nearby.

23 / Thu – Being equipped to stand  |  Read Ephesians 6:10-13 / 1 John 4:1-4

It is very tempting, when being unjustly attacked, to become angry and fight back. But pause and consider this question: Is the devil using these situations to destroy what God is building in you? How can you possibly fight this kind of enemy and win? Paul uses Roman armor to illustrate how you are equipped to overcome. What part does each piece protect? These qualities are invisible, so how could you ‘put them on’? Which one(s) do you need most right now?

24 / Fri – Even when forced to choose  |  Read Daniel 3;13-18

These men of unquestioned integrity were given trusted positions. While they faithfully served the pagan king, they also quietly honored God. Then something changed, and they were forced to choose between the two. You know their story. What answer did they give the king? Have you been tempted to compromise? What happened? What did you choose? Were there consequences? Following Jesus doesn’t guarantee a trouble-free life. Are you committed to Him no matter what?

25 / Sat – Even when you feel alone  |  Read Isaiah 41:10 / 2 Peter 1:3-4

Sometimes troubles come in waves, one thing after another, until you feel like giving up. Don’t! The gospels give many examples of people with debilitating health issues, broken relationships, severe poverty, broken dreams, loss, grief, and even death. Jesus came into every situation, and something changed. He will do the same for you. You never have to go through anything alone. Never. When thoughts to the contrary sneak into your mind, will you let this truth kick them out of your head? No matter what happens, it will be okay in the end.