For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost? – Luke 14:28

Have you ever watched a home renovation show on television? The homeowners typically set out all the parameters for the designers, including their budget. As demolition starts, it frequently happens that unexpected problems come up. Some homeowners are ready with a contingency budget, while others scramble to figure out how to handle the extra expenses they hadn’t included in their calculations.

Life in general can sometimes feel this way. Unexpected costs, whether financial or otherwise, often crop up. In Luke 14, Jesus talks about the cost of following Him. He actually invited people to stop and consider what it would cost them to follow Him, to make sure they are truly ready to be His disciples. On the other hand, there is also a cost to not following Jesus. Each person must weigh the costs on both sides to decide what they are willing to pay.

Have you determined what you are willing to pay to follow Christ? Do you recognize what it would cost you not to follow Jesus? Ask the Lord to strengthen your walk as you follow Him today, that He will give you whatever you need to endure the cost you may face. As you consider the United States, pray that God would open up the eyes of the citizens of this nation to how costly it is to turn away from Him. Ask the Lord to draw the eyes and hearts of Americans, including those in positions of authority, to focus on the path that He has laid out.