“Then Peter said to Jesus, “We’ve given up everything to follow You. What will we get?”
Matthew 19:27
Several years ago a friend of mine walked away from a successful career, making a lucrative income, in order to transition into full-time vocational ministry. He sensed the call of God on his life. He left the familiar for the unfamiliar. He left the known for the unknown. He left financial security for financial insecurity. Jesus said “Follow Me,” and he simply “followed Him” (Matthew 4:19). God doesn’t call the equipped—He equips the called.After a time of preparation and planning he and his wife made the transition. He settled into his new ministry role on staff at a local church in the community where he lived, with peace and contentment knowing where God planted him. However, through it all, one resounding question continued coming up in his mind.“What will I get?”Sounds selfish doesn’t it? However, let’s not be too critical, because the same question was asked of Jesus by the disciples, and specifically Peter. Read it again…“We’ve given up everything to follow you, what will we get?”Ever been there yourself? Have you ever been at that crossroads? Sure you have. This is where obedience intersects with disobedience. This is where faith intersects with doubt. We’ve all, in one way or another, posed the very same question to God.“What will I get for leaving everything and following you?”What’s fascinating about this story is that Jesus never once scolds Peter for asking that question. He never condemns him. He gently responds to Peter's question and lets him know what’s in it for him, and each of the disciples, for leaving everything and following Him. Read the story yourself in Matthew 19. What an amazing response.So, what has God asked you to give up? What is that one thing that is holding you back from diving in deep and “Following Him” wholeheartedly? Allow me to remind you that Peter would have never walked on water had he not stepped out of the boat (Matthew 14:28-29).Listen closely: God can handle your doubts. He can handle your worries. He will reassure your fears. He will provide what you need and when you need it. He’s big enough to handle whatever question you have for Him. And with great grace, mercy and gentleness He will answer you. All He asks from you is obedience. God is continuing to write your story. When He is finished, He will take you home. Until that time, trust Him and obey Him with all of your heart.What is God calling you to?Be Worth Being,KevinSUBSCRIBE TO "OVER THE HUMP" DEVOTIONALKevin Burrell has worked in professional baseball as both a player and MLB scout for the past 39 years, and currently serves as an area scouting supervisor. Kevin was drafted in the 1st round of the 1981 free agent amateur draft (25th selection overall), and played ten years of professional baseball with four different organizations. He and his wife, Valerie, live in Sharpsburg, Ga.
Imagine that you could sit down and pick the brains of some of the top leaders in the country! That's the premise behind the Linch with a Leader podcast. Learn how these leaders - all among the best in their respective field - have risen to the top, while continuing to grow spiritually and chase after the Lord.
