Following Jesus Has a Cost Worth Considering
Following Jesus Has a Cost Worth Considering: an original Matthew 8:18-22 KJV devotional with biblical context and practical application.
“Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side. And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.”
Matthew 8:18-22 KJV
An eager promise can be sincere and still underestimate the road ahead. Jesus did not collect enthusiastic statements without addressing their meaning. He made clear that following Him involved an allegiance deeper than comfort and customary expectations.
Read the passage carefully
These sayings must be read alongside Scripture's commands to honor parents and fulfill family responsibilities. Christ is not giving permission for careless abandonment. He is asserting His supreme authority and exposing the use of ordinary concerns as excuses for refusing His call. The details require thoughtful interpretation, but the central demand is clear: He will not be reduced to one optional interest among many equal masters.
Consider the cost of obedience honestly. There may be a habit to leave, an advantage to refuse, a schedule to change, or a conversation you have postponed because it will be uncomfortable. Do not make a dramatic promise simply to feel devoted. Identify the next clear responsibility and follow through. Wise preparation and mature counsel can help distinguish faithful sacrifice from impulsive decisions that burden other people unnecessarily.
Carry this truth into the day
Christ is worthy of the allegiance He requires because He is the Lord and Saviour. Our obedience does not purchase His grace; it responds to the One who gave Himself for us. When the cost feels heavy, remember the foundation of your trust and receive help from His people. Discipleship is not sustained by the excitement of a first declaration alone. It grows through daily dependence, truthful priorities, and repeated willingness to do what His Word makes plain. The Lord who calls us understands the road better than we do, and following Him is wiser than preserving every comfort at the expense of His rightful place.
Why the setting matters
Jesus responds to would-be followers by making the demands of discipleship plain. His words expose assumptions that following Him will leave ordinary priorities untouched.
Continue in the Word
Read further: Matthew 8 in the King James Bible.