What Does It Mean To Really Follow Jesus?
We have all had moments where we start strong but hesitate halfway through. Maybe it is following a dream, making a big decision, or even taking a step of faith. We mean it when we say, “I’m in,” but something inside of us quietly whispers, “Maybe not right now.”
That is what happens in Luke 9:57–62 when three people meet Jesus and say they want to follow Him. Each one seems sincere, but each has a “but.”
One says, “I’ll follow You wherever You go,” but he is looking for comfort, not commitment. Another says, “I’ll follow You, but first let me go and bury my father.” The third says, “I’ll follow You, but let me first say goodbye.”
All three want Jesus, but only if they can do it on their own terms.
“No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” — Luke 9:62
Jesus’ words are not harsh; they are honest. Following Him means letting go of excuses and distractions that pull our eyes backward. He does not want half-hearted followers. He wants full devotion.
From “I’ll Follow You, But…” to “I’ll Follow You, No Matter What.”
The problem was not their desire; it was their delay. Each one had good intentions but divided priorities. They wanted both Jesus and comfort, both calling and convenience.
But Jesus makes it clear: you cannot move forward if you keep looking back.
He does not ask us to be perfect. He asks us to be willing, to trust Him enough to let go of what holds us. To stop saying, “I’ll follow You, but…” and start saying, “I’ll follow You, no matter what.”
Following Jesus is costly. But what you gain—purpose, peace, and freedom—is worth everything you leave behind.
The Call to Follow Without Hesitation
Faith is not about what we keep; it is about what we give up to follow Christ. Jesus does not need more fans; He is looking for followers.
When you follow Jesus with no reserve, no retreat, and no regrets, you will discover something freeing: life is fuller when your hands are open.
What if you stopped looking back and trusted that what is ahead with Jesus is far greater than what is behind you?
Reflect:
What are you tempted to “look back” to instead of moving forward with Jesus?
Which of these excuses do you relate to most: comfort, convenience, or control?
What would it look like for you to say, “No reserve. No retreat. No regrets,” in your walk with Jesus this week?
Pray:
Father, thank You for inviting me to follow Jesus fully. Help me to let go of comfort, fear, and excuses that keep me looking back. Teach me to trust that what You have ahead is better than what I have left behind. Give me the courage to say, “I’ll follow You, no matter what,” and to live each day with no reserve, no retreat, and no regrets.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.