Remember playing “Follow the leader” in elementary school? Sometimes a classmate would be chosen to literally “lead” the class line to the library or cafeteria. Sometimes the teacher would ask a student to come up and lead the class in a silly game of “Follow the leader”. They would stand on one leg and jump and the other students were to follow suit. It could be very entertaining. In any case, the leader showed everyone else what to do. Leaders lead. Where they go, you go. Everything rises and falls with leadership. Whoever is leading your company, ultimately decides the direction and prosperity of that company. Leaders have large responsibilities and the people under their jurisdiction are affected greatly by their important decisions.
We’re all “following” something. Sometimes we follow a TV series. Occasionally, we follow music groups or certain musicians. We have a tendency to follow our friends. This is how trends get started. This person bought these shoes and loved them. The next one did too and so on. When something seems appealing, we follow. Sometimes it’s beneficial to follow along. Sometimes it can be very detrimental to us and dangerous. For instance, a teenager getting another to try a seemingly “harmless” illegal drug. This can have serious repercussions. Having said that, it’s important to know who or what you’re actually following. Is this person trustworthy? Is this a good cause? Will this be beneficial for myself and the people around me? You have to seek answers. Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.” (John 10:28-30 NLT) Jesus is trustworthy to follow. He gives you a guarantee that if you’re His sheep, He will be guiding you because you know His voice. You’re in The Father’s hand and you’re protected. Nobody wants better for you than Jesus. He also made the world so nothing in it can manipulate Him. He knows all truth because He is Truth. That’s safety!
Following Jesus does not mean you won’t have trials. In fact, just the opposite. “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NLT) He actually tells us that life will be hard. However, if you belong to Him, He has overcome this world on your behalf. You have a refuge to run to. You have hope because The Leader you’re following is the very definition of Hope. You are not left to your own devices without help. This is the difference in following the world’s ways or The Lord’s ways. Jesus will fight your battles for you and He never loses!
Choosing who or what to follow in this world is a very important decision. There’s only one King and one throne. Whatever or whoever is on the throne of your life determines your life. “The Lord has made the heavens his throne; from there he rules over everything.” (Psalms 103:19 NLT) Isn’t this The One you want on the throne of your heart? The Bible says He rules over everything. This means everything is subject to Him. If He’s asking you to follow Him, do it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Your joy and peace will be made full knowing that you’re following the right Leader.
Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.
