“How long will you waver between two opinions [the cross promise only or, the cross and power promises]? If the LORD is God, follow him, , ” But the people said nothing." - The Prophet Elijah (1Kings 18:21)
Our Lord did not simply call us to deny ourselves. He called us to follow Him today as well. What is the truth about taking up your cross daily and following Him? Paul offers the practical application when he concludes his letter to the Ephesians, he does not write, "Remain only where you first believed." He, the Holy Spirit through him writes; "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might."
For the Christian's greatest safety has never been found in drawing careful boundaries around God, but in drawing ever nearer to Him. The safety surrounds us with joyful confidence that "every good and perfect gift comes down from the Father of lights", who has never ceased to be faithful.
Every genuine work of the Holy Spirit through us magnifies Jesus Christ. He never competes with the Son; He glorifies Him. He never replaces the Scriptures; He illuminates them. He never exalts Himself; He exalts Christ. So, it's not for us to ask what we may safely decline from, but what our gracious Lord delights to give. The preservation of the Christian life is not known by its minimum requirements, but by the immeasurable riches of Christ.
If there remains more of Christ to know, let us know Him. If there remains more of His wisdom, let us seek it. If there remains more of His strength, let us receive it. If there remains more of His Spirit's sanctifying work, let us welcome it with humble and discerning hearts.
