Burn the Ships

To authentically follow Jesus requires completely leaving our old lives behind and wholeheartedly embracing his calling, even when it leads to hardship and persecution. Just as Cortez burned his ships to fully commit his men to conquering the Aztecs, we must remove any possibility of turning back to our old ways if we are to be true disciples. This means denying ourselves daily, sacrificing our own desires, taking up our crosses, and living entirely for Christ. It means proclaiming his name boldly, obeying his Word consistently, and refusing to be ashamed of him, even when others ridicule and oppress us for our faith. God's grace covers us when we stumble, but the overall course of a believer's life should demonstrate increasing devotion to Jesus through the Spirit's work. Examining our lives for any "ships" we still need to burn is imperative if we are to follow the Lord without reservation. His way, and his way alone, brings purpose, freedom, and eternal reward.