Jesus made a couple of astounding promises to those who follow him. First he proclaimed, Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them. Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit, later to infuse many in his audience, and present in those who bow to him today.

A little later Jesus said, The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.

With these dual promises of abundant life and the power of the Holy Spirit, why would anyone hesitate to follow Jesus? Sometimes the message is muddled or unavailable. Often the life of the messenger (myself included) blocks a clear and compelling view of Jesus.

A root cause for many is an unwillingness to surrender. Jesus calls for obedience to his ways and his teachings. Jesus asks those who follow him for everything—all they have and all they are and all they hope to be. Basically, to change your entire reason for living.

But what a change! Not a life without pain or challenges, but one now in touch with the Master. Think about it—how many people do you know who truly live a joyous, abundant life? I know only a few, and they all follow Jesus.

There’s definitely something to his promises. Don’t hesitate to commit.

John 7 & John 10 in reading the Bible in 2023

Photo by Ümit Bulut