The Put God First Challenge

Day 5: Following Jesus

Matthew 2

Luke 6

John 13

1 Peter 1

Day 5: Following Jesus

Jesus,

You stood by the shores of Galilee and called ordinary men to follow You. They left everything—their boats, their nets, their livelihoods—because they saw something in You that was worth more than all they had. And now, You extend that same invitation to me: “Come, follow Me” (Matthew 4:19). Lord, I want to say yes, not just with my words but with my whole life.

Following You is not always easy. You said that anyone who wants to be Your disciple must deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow You (Luke 9:23). That means surrendering my plans, my comfort, and my control. It means trusting You even when the road is uncertain. Some days, I wrestle with that surrender. I want to follow You, but I also want to hold on to my own way. Help me to loosen my grip and trust that what You have for me is always better.

Lord, You are the true vine, and I am only able to bear fruit when I remain in You (John 15:5). Apart from You, I am lost, directionless, and empty. But when I abide in You, I find purpose, strength, and peace. Teach me to stay close to You, to seek You daily, to listen for Your voice, and to obey Your leading. May my life reflect the evidence of walking with You.

I know that following You is not about perfection but about pursuit. Even the disciples stumbled and failed, yet You never gave up on them. Thank You for Your grace when I fall short, for Your patience when I hesitate, and for Your love that never lets me go. Keep drawing me deeper, refining my heart, and shaping me into Your likeness.

Jesus, I choose to follow You—not just in the big moments but in the everyday choices. In how I speak, how I love, how I serve, and how I trust. Lead me where You want me to go and give me the courage to walk in obedience. Whatever it costs, You are worth it all.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.