The Daily Devotional
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
The Cost of Discipleship—What Can You Afford?
Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? … So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions. (Luke 14:27–28, 33)
Introduction
Crowds followed Jesus in hopes of healing, miracles, and blessings. But instead of promising comfort and ease, He confronted them with the sobering reality: discipleship is costly. It requires surrender, sacrifice, and loyalty above all else. His words still echo into our lives, calling us to pause and consider—what is the true cost of following Him, and are we willing to pay it?
Reflection
Think of the last time you faced a major financial decision. Perhaps it was buying a car or planning a home renovation. You likely asked, “Can I really afford this?” Beyond simply having enough money for the first payment, you had to consider long-term costs—insurance, upkeep, energy, and unexpected repairs.
Jesus uses that same principle in today’s passage. Following Him isn’t something to jump into on impulse. It’s not about a single emotional moment but about a lifelong commitment. He compares it to building a tower or preparing for battle—decisions that demand careful thought and full investment.
Yet unlike earthly purchases, discipleship isn’t about whether you have enough resources in your wallet—it’s about whether you are willing to surrender your life. The irony is this: on our own, we cannot afford discipleship. Our spiritual bank account is empty. But Jesus already paid the price on the cross. Now the question shifts—not “Can I afford to follow?” but “Can I afford not to follow?”
Application
Discipleship means daily choices to put Christ first.
When work, family, or leisure compete for your time—will you choose Christ above all?
When material possessions or security tempt you—will you trust Him with everything?
When opposition comes—will you carry the cross rather than set it down?
Today, ask yourself: What holds me back from wholehearted discipleship? Is it fear of losing comfort, status, or relationships? Bring that cost before Christ, and remember—He already bore the ultimate cost for you.
Conclusion
The cost of discipleship is high, but the cost of refusing it is higher still. Without Jesus, we are left with spiritual poverty and eternal loss. With Him, we inherit peace that cannot be bought, a purpose that cannot be shaken, and eternal life that cannot be taken away. The question remains: What can you afford? Or rather—can you afford not to follow Jesus?
Prayer
Gracious Lord, You counted the cost of my salvation and paid it in full with the life of Your Son. Forgive me for the times I have clung to comfort, possessions, or pride instead of fully surrendering to You. Teach me to carry my cross with courage, trusting in Your strength and grace. Help me to live each day in gratitude for the price You paid, and to honor You with my words, my actions, and my whole life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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