Making DisciplesSample

The Choosing

Peter was with his brother, Andrew, casting a net into the sea when Jesus walked by and said, “Come, follow Me.” Both Peter and Andrew at once dropped their nets and followed Him. So did James and John when Jesus called them as they were mending their nets. They didn’t miss a beat. Matthew was also at work when Jesus called on him saying, “Follow Me.” Matthew got up and followed Him. These men were all at work when Jesus came by and called on them. His calling was not an inconvenience; it was an invitation. 

When you understand that God Himself has called your number, you get up and you go. It is not about who you are, but about the One who is doing the calling. When religious leaders criticized Jesus for choosing Matthew as one of His followers, Jesus informed them that He had “not come to call the righteous, but sinners” (Matthew 9:13). Matthew’s poor testimony with his people did not keep him from following Jesus. For those who believe who Jesus says He is, it is a daily decision to get up and follow Him, despite all previous circumstances.

Jesus called many, but not all came—they had other priorities. Many did follow Him; they walked and traveled with Him, ate with Him, and learned from Him. However, after a whole night of prayer, the instruction Jesus received from His Father was to choose and give authority to twelve of them. Those twelve He called apostles. God chose them to walk a bit closer to Jesus so they could learn all of His principles and practices. 

God chose me. He chose me. Try saying this out loud:“God chose me before the foundation of the world.” Receive that for yourself. Does it humble you? Does it excite you? Does it bring you peace about the situation you are in right now? 

You are chosen, and you have an eternal purpose in Him. You are not here by chance. You were created for a purpose. That purpose comes from your Creator. He wants to walk with you, just as He walked with Abraham, and just as Jesus walked with His disciples. He chose you because He wants to enjoy a close relationship with you, and in the process, make you more like Him. 

Are you ready to get up every day and follow Him?