Following Jesus is not always easy. There are days when it feels like the weight of the world is pressing down on us. Sometimes, it can seem like life would be simpler if we just followed the crowd, went with the flow, and lived for ourselves. Yet, we are called to something much greater. Jesus offers us a life of meaning, purpose, and eternal hope—but He never promised that the journey would be easy.
In fact, Jesus was honest about the challenges that come with following Him. He said, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23, ESV). The image of carrying a cross is not one of comfort, but of sacrifice, struggle, and surrender. Yet, in the midst of that difficulty, there is a joy and peace that surpasses understanding.
Why Is It Hard to Follow Jesus?
If you’ve ever asked, “Why is this so hard?” when following Jesus, know that you are not alone. Every Christian faces moments where the path feels steep and overwhelming. Here are some reasons why the journey can be difficult:
1. Going Against the Grain
Following Jesus often means living in a way that runs counter to the world around us. Society tells us to live for ourselves, to seek success, power, and comfort. But Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44), to live humbly (Philippians 2:3), and to put God’s kingdom first (Matthew 6:33). This can make us feel isolated, misunderstood, or even ridiculed. Jesus warned us that the world might hate us because it first hated Him (John 15:18-19).
It’s tough to be different. It’s tough to say no to the things the world tells us to chase after. But it’s in these moments of surrender that we find the true life Jesus offers us—a life rich in meaning, purpose, and eternal hope.
2. Daily Self-Denial
Let’s be honest—denying ourselves is hard. Our natural inclination is to seek our own desires, to prioritize our own comfort and happiness. Yet, Jesus calls us to a different way of living. He calls us to put aside our wants and desires and to seek His will instead. Luke 9:23 reminds us that following Jesus requires daily surrender. Some days that might mean choosing to forgive when we want to hold a grudge, or to trust God when we want to be in control.
It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. In losing ourselves, we find our true identity in Christ.
3. Enduring Suffering and Trials
There’s no sugarcoating it—life as a Christian is not free from suffering. Jesus told His followers, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV). Trials come in many forms—personal struggles, health issues, financial difficulties, or even persecution for our faith. In those moments, it’s tempting to wonder if it’s all worth it.
But here’s the beautiful promise: even in the midst of suffering, Jesus is with us. He knows our pain, He feels our sorrow, and He offers us His comfort and peace. Romans 8:18 reminds us, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” The struggles we face now are temporary, but the joy of being with Jesus for eternity is forever.
The Joy of Following Jesus
While the path may be difficult, the joy of following Jesus far outweighs the challenges. Jesus offers us something the world cannot give—peace that transcends understanding (Philippians 4:7), a life filled with purpose (John 10:10), and the promise of eternity with Him. Here are just a few of the rewards we experience:
1. Deep, Abiding Peace
Even in the midst of trials, Jesus gives us His peace. It’s not a peace that comes from having an easy life, but from knowing that we are loved, seen, and held by the Creator of the universe. When we follow Jesus, we don’t have to carry our burdens alone—He invites us to come to Him and find rest (Matthew 11:28-30).
2. A Life of Purpose and Meaning
The world often tells us to chase after things that don’t last—money, status, success. But Jesus calls us to something greater. He calls us to live for His kingdom, to love others as He loved us, and to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). When we live for Jesus, our lives take on a deeper meaning and purpose that goes beyond ourselves.
3. The Promise of Eternal Life
One of the greatest promises of following Jesus is the hope of eternal life with Him. 2 Corinthians 4:17 puts it this way: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” The struggles of this life, while painful, are temporary. But the joy of being with Jesus forever—that’s something no trial or hardship can take away.
Conclusion
Yes, following Jesus is difficult at times. But it’s in those moments of struggle, when we deny ourselves and carry our cross, that we are drawn closer to Him. The path may be hard, but the rewards—His peace, His purpose, and the promise of eternal life—are more than worth it.
Friend, if you’re feeling weary from the journey, take heart. You are not alone. Jesus is with you, strengthening you, guiding you, and offering you His joy and peace every step of the way.
Closing Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, I come before You and acknowledge that following Your Son can be hard at times. But Lord, we know that You are with us through every challenge and trial. Help us to deny ourselves, to take up our cross, and to follow You with faithfulness and joy. Thank You for the peace You offer us, for the purpose You give our lives, and for the promise of eternal life with You. "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (Romans 8:18). In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
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