I really don’t like what I’m about to say:

Comfort is the enemy of discipleship.

The problem is that I like comfort. I also like being a disciple of Jesus. But why are those two things supposedly in conflict?

Comfort is about maximizing convenience, and minimizing inconveniences which take us out of our comfort zones.

With that in mind, Jesus comes along and says, “whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27). Carrying a cross is about sacrificing our own selfish desires so that we can be more fully committed to the mission and Way of Jesus.

As I write these words I’m fully aware that I’m often a hypocrite. I like comfort. There are times when I’d much rather just do what I want to do instead of what Jesus wants me to do.

The important thing is that I’m honest about it. Am I always a beloved child of God? Yes. But let’s get real: When I prioritize comfort over the cross, I’m not being a disciple. In those moments, I’m being lazy. And selfish.

But when I put Jesus and his Way first, I am being a disciple.

There are times when we can in fact be comfortable, and rest, and just have a great time. There’s nothing wrong with that. It’s good to enjoy life.

But when we only ever want to be comfortable, and when we neglect Christ in the process, there’s a problem.

And one way to know there’s a problem is if you’re never in situations where your faith in Christ makes you stand out, take a risk, serve boldly, or feel different.

Are you single-minded in your pursuit of comfort to the detriment of your discipleship?

If so, make a change. Live closer to the edge. Stand out. Act out of love and self-sacrifice.

It’s better to shine bright for Christ than to fade away into a lesser life.

By Matthew Ruttan
–My latest blog is: “7 Little Known Facts About (Local) Human Trafficking.” It’s the nightmare that isn’t a dream. Click here to read more.
–Bible quotes are from the NIV.