GIVE UP TO GAIN By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"Then Jesus said to His disciples, 'If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.'" (Matthew 16:24-25, NKJV)
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Introduction
The call to discipleship is a call to absolute surrender. Jesus made it clear that to follow Him, one must give up all else. Many struggle with this requirement, as they hold on to relationships, material possessions, personal ambitions, and worldly pleasures. However, Jesus does not call His followers to give up without a promise of a greater gain. True life, peace, and eternal joy are found in surrendering fully to Him.
In this teaching, we will explore what it truly means to "give up to gain," examining the necessity of full commitment to Christ, the consequences of disobedience, and the ultimate rewards of a life fully surrendered to God.
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The Cost of Discipleship
"So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple." (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
Jesus made it clear that discipleship is costly. It requires that we forsake all allegiances that conflict with our obedience to Him. Whether it be relationships, careers, ambitions, or material possessions, nothing should take priority over Christ.
When we cling to the things of this world, we hinder our spiritual growth and block the blessings that come with total surrender. True discipleship demands that we trust Jesus enough to relinquish control, knowing that He provides all that we truly need.
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The Danger of Disobedience
"But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15, NLT)
Disobedience is rebellion against God, and it leads to destruction. Those who reject the call to surrender and obedience risk spiritual death and separation from God. Many resist God's way because of their attachments to sin and the world, believing that His path is too difficult. However, this disobedience only brings sorrow, bondage, and eternal punishment.
God has no place in His kingdom for the rebellious. He desires obedient children who will follow His will with faith and devotion. Those who walk in disobedience open themselves to judgment, while those who walk in obedience experience life, peace, and divine provision.
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The Power of Surrender
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6, NKJV)
When we surrender to God, we position ourselves to receive divine guidance and supernatural provision. The world teaches self-reliance, but God calls us to total dependence on Him. Those who release their grip on worldly desires gain access to His unlimited resources, wisdom, and direction.
A surrendered life is not a life of loss but of gain. God blesses those who put Him first, meeting their needs abundantly and granting them eternal rewards.
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The Ultimate Gain: Eternal Life
"And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life." (1 John 5:11-12, NKJV)
The greatest gain for those who surrender their lives to Christ is eternal life. This world is temporary, but God's kingdom is everlasting. Those who reject Christ in favor of worldly pleasures will suffer eternal separation from God, but those who give up everything for Him will gain the priceless reward of eternity in His presence.
We must always remember that our true home is not on earth but in heaven. Every sacrifice made for Christ on earth is nothing compared to the eternal joy and inheritance awaiting us in His kingdom.
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Summary
Giving up for Christ is not loss but gain. True discipleship requires that we forsake all else and follow Him wholeheartedly. Disobedience leads to destruction, while surrender leads to divine provision and eternal life. Jesus is the only way, and those who desire to be His true followers must be willing to give up all that hinders their walk with Him.
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Conclusion
Jesus has given us the invitation to follow Him, but this requires absolute surrender. Many choose to hold on to their worldly attachments, but those who truly desire to be His disciples will let go and trust Him completely. The cost may seem high, but the reward is far greater.
If we are to be true followers of Christ, we must embrace the truth that we must "give up to gain." When we surrender our lives to Him, we receive far more than we ever let go of—peace, joy, divine provision, and eternal life.
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Call to Action
Are you willing to surrender everything for Christ? Take a moment to examine your life. Are there things you are holding onto that hinder your relationship with Jesus? Make the decision today to lay them down at His feet. Trust that He will lead you into a life far greater than anything the world can offer.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged that God sees your surrender and honors your sacrifice. When you give up for Him, He will give you more than you could ever ask for. Stay faithful, walk in obedience, and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. He will guide you, strengthen you, and reward you in due time.
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Salvation Prayer
If you have never surrendered your life to Jesus, now is the time. Pray this prayer with sincerity:
"Lord Jesus, I come before You today, recognizing that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. Today, I surrender my life to You. I turn away from my sins and commit to following You wholeheartedly. Come into my heart, be my Lord and Savior, and help me to walk in obedience to Your will. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
