Weekly Devotional

September 18, 2025

THE MESSAGE AFTER DEVOTIONAL: Luke 9:23

And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross  daily, and follow me.  

We all declare we are disciples of Christ. However, much of our care, concern, and commitments merit a specific question. The question is, are we really disciples? Let us answer for ourselves,according to the text, there are at least 3 criteria we must meet. First, we must understand (it is optional) “if any man will come after me”. Largely, serve as if the Lord owes us for our service. He can’t owe us because He died in order that we be able to serve. Next we must understand, (it is overwhelming) “let him deny himself, take up his cross daily”. It is overwhelming because in order for me to be a disciple, I must get rid of me. Lastly, the text suggests we must understand, (it is opportunistic) “follow me”. The blessing in this opportunity is knowing that if I’m following Him, He is with me. So my Christian friends, if you desire discipleship you must understand these three. Until the next time, may your experience following Christ be a blessing amidst the burden. 

The Prayer:

Thank you Father for your paternity, protection, and all provisions. It is in the name of Christ we offer thanks. Amen.

Gardiner L. Sanders, Jr., 

Senior Pastor, Mercy Seat M.B. Church