“For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” – Luke 14:28
Bible Verses About Counting The Cost
Understanding What It Means to Count the Cost
When we reflect on what it means to count the cost in our spiritual lives, we realize how important it is to truly evaluate our commitment to following Christ. This concept goes hand in hand with considering the sacrifices we may need to make along the way. We are encouraged to think about our relationship with Jesus as more than just a casual encounter, but rather, a life-changing commitment that requires dedication and effort. Counting the cost means evaluating what following Jesus may require from us, such as time, resources, and even relationships. It’s about being aware of the challenges but also the immense joy that comes from embracing our faith fully.
Luke 14:28
“For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” – Luke 14:28
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” – Matthew 16:24
Luke 14:33
“So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.” – Luke 14:33
Philippians 3:8
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake, I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.” – Philippians 3:8
Romans 12:1
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” – Romans 12:1
Making Sacrifices for Our Faith
As we stand firm in our desire to follow Christ, we may find ourselves facing circumstances where sacrifices are necessary. These sacrifices could relate to our personal ambitions, relationships, or even comforts we have grown accustomed to. Making sacrifices proves our commitment to the Lord and reflects our faith that what lies ahead is infinitely more rewarding than what we may give up now. While it can be hard, we need to remember that God equips and strengthens us when we choose to put Him first in our lives. The story of the rich young ruler who struggled to give up his possessions illustrates this powerful truth. We must remember that native happiness and fulfillment come from our obedience to God.
Matthew 19:21
“Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” – Matthew 19:21
Mark 10:29
“Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life.” – Mark 10:29
Luke 9:62
“Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” – Luke 9:62
2 Timothy 2:12
“If we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us.” – 2 Timothy 2:12
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
God’s Encouragement in Counting the Cost
It can feel overwhelming at times when we think about all that it means to follow Christ. It’s comforting to know that God is encouraging us through His Word and promises. When we count the cost, we can rest in the assurance that God is with us through every challenge and triumph. He has equipped us with the strength, wisdom, and grace needed to navigate the path laid out before us. We can be assured that whatever we face, God has our back. We must remember that He celebrates our genuine efforts to live in obedience to Him and will never leave us alone in our journey.
Romans 8:31
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
The Joy of Following Christ
Counting the cost can sometimes feel heavy, but let us not forget the beautiful joy that comes from our relationship with Christ. When we make sacrifices and submit to His will, we find a joy that’s beyond understanding. This joy is rooted in knowing that we are walking in the plans that God has for us. As we grow in our faith, we realize that the cost we counted before pales in comparison to the incredible gift of eternal life, love, and peace that we receive in return. Let’s remind ourselves often that the adventure of following Christ is unlike any other, where every moment filled with faith leads to blessings beyond measure.
John 15:11
“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” – John 15:11
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Psalms 16:11
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” – Psalms 16:11
John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” – John 10:10
Psalms 126:5-6
“Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.” – Psalms 126:5-6
Partnership in the Body of Christ
As we endeavor to count the cost of our faith, we must acknowledge the vital importance of community. We are not in this alone; we have each other to encourage, support, and uplift in our Christian walks. Being part of the body of Christ means that we share in the burdens and joys together. We can lean on one another through difficult moments and celebrate achievements as a unified group. As we embrace the cost of discipleship, let’s lean into our relationships with fellow believers, finding strength in each other’s faith and experiences. Together, we can spur each other on, reminding each other of the promises and blessings that await us.
1 Corinthians 12:12
“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Galatians 6:2
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Philippians 1:27
“Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.” – Philippians 1:27
Ephesians 4:16
“From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” – Ephesians 4:16
Trusting God’s Plan
As we contemplate counting the cost of following Jesus, we are reminded to trust God’s perfect plan for our lives. Our journey may not always unfold as we expect; however, we can find peace in knowing that God is in control. Trusting in His guidance allows us to embrace our calling while releasing the need to control every outcome. God sees the bigger picture and moves in ways we cannot always see or understand. Let’s choose to rest in His faithfulness, trusting that as we face the costs of discipleship, we are participating in an incredible divine narrative that ultimately draws us closer to Him. He promises that those who seek Him will not be disappointed.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Psalm 37:4
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” – Isaiah 55:8-9
Romans 8:28
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Final Thoughts
Counting the cost of being a disciple of Jesus is not just about recognizing the challenges but also embracing the amazing rewards that come along with it. As we stand firm in our faith, let’s remember that the sacrifices we make today lead to a fuller life tomorrow, grounded in love and joy. We can lean on one another for support and encouragement, knowing that we are not alone in this journey. It is through our unity that we find strength to overcome the challenges we face as followers of Christ. Ultimately, trusting in God’s plans allows us to experience peace in the midst of uncertainty. Let’s take heart that our journey, with its costs and blessings, is beautifully written in the hands of our Creator.
As we reflect on these truths, I invite you to explore more relevant topics that may inspire and encourage your walk with Christ. You can check out these articles on giving up everything for God or counting your blessings.