So many people say 'I'm just not ready' to accept Jesus. They imagine it to be a big, momentous commitment that requires them to be perfect, think perfectly and never sin again. They want to have fun, they want to go their own way, and they don't want to be controlled by something larger than themselves.
In our everyday life, we are constantly presented with proposals to try things. Free samples, subscriptions, wine tasting, introductory offers. And we try them. And if we like them, we buy more.
Many of us like to play the lottery, or fantasy football or some other form of gambling. Some pour tons of effort into gathering information, studying past results, understanding who and what and how the results may be affected before they choose an action.
Why do we try new products and services? Why do we engage in games of chance? Because we perceive that the risk of loss is lower than the potential reward. The keynote statement is, 'What have I got to lose?'
Apply this logic to the decision to follow Jesus. Like fantasy sports or new products and technology, there is complexity if you choose to delve into it.
But there is also simplicity: Accept Jesus's free gift of salvation. What have you got to lose?
If it is not true, then when you die, whatever is going to happen is going to happen anyway. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
But if it is true, you have literally been saved from eternal misery, in return for the eternal, unfathomable joy and peace with our Father in heaven.
In the meantime, you are armed with a love that cannot be broken or lost. You are with Jesus because Jesus is with you. Always, in good and bad times, no matter what.
This does not mean that you will not have trouble sometimes. Jesus even promises that, in fact, you will have trouble.
But he also tells you not to despair, that He has overcome the world and has taken on your sins and the punishment that they demanded. You have a 'Get Out of Jail Free' card.
Life can be very hard sometimes. In those times, having faith in something greater than yourself, who loves you more than anyone or anything else ever could, is comforting and encouraging. Comfort for the pain and sorry, encouraging you to move forward, past your troubles, learning and growing stronger and more joyful with every step you take with Jesus.
Thanks for reading. Feel free to share or comment if you wish.