The Cost of Discipleship

 Devotion: The Cost of Discipleship—Loving Jesus First

“If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father, mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters, and himself as well, he cannot be My disciple. Whoever does not bear his cross and follow Me cannot be My disciple.” – Luke 14:26-27

These words of Jesus stop us in our tracks. “Hate”? Our loved ones? Ourselves? Isn’t Jesus the one who commands us to love? How can the same Lord call us to love our neighbor and at the same time tell us to “hate” our family?

Understanding this passage through a Hebraic lens brings clarity. In Hebrew thought, “hate” can mean to “love less” or “put in second place.” It's not about harboring resentment or acting unlovingly—it’s about priority. Jesus is calling us to radical allegiance, where our love for Him is so primary, so consuming, that all other loves fall far behind.

As I reflect on this, I realize how often I try to balance my faith with other commitments. But discipleship doesn’t work that way. Jesus doesn’t call us to fit Him into our lives—He calls us to rebuild our lives around Him. When I think of the times I’ve prioritized other relationships or ambitions above my relationship with Christ, I see the subtle danger: divided loyalty. Jesus makes it clear—He must come first, or He isn’t truly Lord.

But here's the beautiful paradox: when I love Jesus most, I actually become a better son, father, friend, and neighbor. My relationships are healthier, more selfless, more grounded in grace, because I’m drawing from the ultimate source of love. Discipleship may be costly—but it’s never empty. It is in surrender that we discover joy.

Contemplation:

• Have I truly counted the cost of following Jesus?

• Are there relationships or priorities that I’ve allowed to come before Christ?

• How might loving Jesus more help me love others better?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, Your words are challenging, but they are life. Teach me to love You above all else—not with a divided heart, but with undivided devotion. Help me to place every relationship, every dream, every comfort beneath the call to follow You. Strengthen me to bear my cross daily and walk the path of discipleship with joy and faith. Thank You that when I love You most, I learn how to truly love others best.
Amen.