Chapters 8 & 9

Okay.Going to see this study through. Have really enjoyed the book. Have to say after reading the first 7 chapters and then seeing a new section, entitled, An invitation to Follow, I was excited. I have read the first few chapters waffling on the line, fan or follower ( okay, more fan than follower, in all honesty) and was anxious to see how to walk on the follower side. The problem is that I must be all or nothing. Anyone and everyone is invited. BUT there must be complete sacrifice, not just sacrificing the things that are easy to sacrifice. Deny self in everything. Even with our "Stains", Jesus still loves us. Anyone can follow but not without giving up everything. Thank goodness for his grace because my everything is not meeting his expectations! And not just follow but follow passionately. It hit home when Kyle mentioned the two conditions some of us use for following..I will do as long as you don't ask too much of me and I will do it as long as things are good. But if it makes me uncomfortable, forget it. Not doing it! And then the part about spiritual apathy in chapter 9, hello, yes, that is me. The analogy a new relationship and then look at that couple after several years; the pasion is at a different level. It was encouraging to read his suggestions to keep on praying , keep on reading the Bible, keep on repenting, and the flickering flame may burst into a fire. Thank you God for your grace.