Believer! What does it looks like to follow Jesus in 2023?

A lot has changed in the wake of 2020. Marked by chaos, turmoil, tension, and a pandemic—politically, economically, globally, and socially—I believe that 2020 serves as a revolutionary break in the continuum of our existence. But then, so did the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. His death, burial, and resurrection tore the veil between humanity and God. In light of these two disruptive events, what does it look like to follow Jesus in 2023?

Obviously, deciding to follow Jesus is a deeply personal decision along our individual spiritual journeys.

First and foremost, following Jesus in 2023 means accepting Him as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. Then, once we’ve made that decision, we begin to live out His teachings in our daily life.

There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12 (NLT)

What does it look like to follow Jesus in 2023?

Like any relationship you value and care about, we must invest time in building our personal relationship with Jesus. We do that through spending time with Him in prayer, in Bible study, in worship, and in community with other believers.

In practical terms, following Jesus in 2023 typically involves participation in a local church or other Christian fellowship. Within these communities of believers, we can support and encourage one another in their faith. We attend regular worship services together. We serve and volunteer in ministries of our local church and other Christian nonprofit and para-church organizations. Additionally, we seek to mature in our faith by participating in small group Bible studies and prayer groups.

Following Jesus in 2023 involves living a life of service and demonstrated compassion towards others. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus modeled this key aspect of living out our faith. This genuine demonstration of our beliefs may involve volunteering at a local charity, donating to causes that align with Christian values, getting involved in local civic activities or simply showing kindness and generosity to those around us who are in need, like the elderly, the poor, and those who are alone. As Christians, we must put shoe leather to our evangelism. As someone once said, “Preach the Gospel. Use words if necessary.”

Finally, following Jesus in 2023 means being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit as we strive to live in a way that honors God in all aspects of our life. This could involve making difficult decisions, taking chances, and being vulnerable enough to step outside of our comfort zone . When we do this, we are truly following God’s calling.

“Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Jesus replied, “‘You must love the your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

Matthew 22:36-40 (NLT)

Ultimately, following Jesus in 2023 is about seeking to love God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself. These, after all, are the two greatest commandments Jesus left us.

With abundant mercies and grace as you follow Jesus in 2023!

Rainer Bantau

The Devotional Guy™

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The Devotional Guy™ Rainer Bantau © 2023