Is Following Christ Difficult?
Yes, indeed, following Jesus Christ is a challenging task. It requires discipline to walk with God. Therefore, anyone who claims to be a follower of Christ but is not serious about this commitment may lack discipline over time and may eventually give up.
To follow Jesus Christ is to completely submit oneself to Him, recognizing that He is our Lord and Savior and that our love for Him must take precedence over everything else (Luke 14:26).
While following Christ may seem easy for some individuals, it is, in fact, a challenging yet ultimately rewarding journey. Picture a path that is both straightforward and full of twists and turns. That is what it is like to follow Christ: it may seem simple, yet it presents challenges along the way.
Let’s put it this way: the path of walking completely with Jesus isn’t always easy. There will be trials along the way, but in Him, we find everything our soul has been searching for—love, truth, and a peace that never fades.
As Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28, NIV)
Choosing to wholeheartedly follow Christ doesn’t mean life will be free of struggles. Challenges will still come, but the difference is that you won’t face them alone. When the weight of life becomes too much to carry, don’t hesitate to give it to Jesus. He cares deeply for you and wants to help.
As the Bible says, “Cast all your cares on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)
Christ’s main messages are about love, kindness, forgiveness, and understanding. However, as we go through life, it can get complicated, and we need to stick to these principles despite the challenges.
Jesus provides a profound guideline: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’ (Matthew 22:37-39). By replacing hate with love and anger with kindness, you will feel closer to God and experience greater peace in your life.
Why Is Following Christ So Difficult?
Because it goes against everything the world celebrates.
The path of Christ calls us to deny ourselves, while the world urges us to chase every desire. It teaches us to forgive deeply, while the world says to hold grudges tightly.
It asks us to walk by faith—not by sight—and trust a God we cannot see more than the world we do. Following Jesus means surrendering control, letting go of pride, and choosing love when it’s easier to walk away.
It means picking up our cross daily—even when no one is watching, even when it costs us comfort, approval, or ease. It’s not difficult because God made it hard. It’s difficult because our flesh resists surrender, our minds crave clarity before obedience, and the noise of the crowd easily sways our hearts.
Yet, in that struggle lies the beauty: The more we walk with Him, the more we are changed. Though the road is narrow, it leads to life—life that cannot be measured by comfort, but by peace, purpose, and eternal hope.
What Following Jesus Truly Looks Like
If you are truly following Jesus, that means you are dying to yourself daily. It means laying down your will for His, again and again. It’s not just about going to church or knowing the right words to say.
Following Jesus is a daily choice. A quiet surrender. It’s letting His truth shape your actions, even when no one is watching. It’s walking in love, even when your heart has been broken. It means choosing forgiveness over bitterness, humility over pride, light over darkness. It’s praying when you’re weak, trusting when you’re unsure, and standing firm when the world pulls you in every direction.
Following Jesus means letting go of what holds you back and holding tightly to the One who never lets go of you. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being real, staying close to His presence, and growing each day in faith, obedience, and love.
Don’t be misled—following Jesus is not easy. It’s a path that asks for sacrifice, not comfort. If your walk with Him feels too easy, it may be time to ask: Am I truly following His voice or just walking my own way? To follow Christ is to carry your cross daily. It comes with a cost—but it also comes with a peace the world cannot offer.
What makes you believe that what you’re chasing is more important than God? Why do you feel the need for something beyond Him? Why is fitting in with the world so important to you? Why is it so hard to stand apart and be different? My question is simple: why?
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2 (NIV)
If you say you love Jesus, then why not be willing to sacrifice your ‘precious life,’ since He gave up His life for you? When you truly love the Lord, it’s not just something you say—it’s something you live. Let your actions reflect the sincerity of your love, not just your words. “If you love me, keep my commands.” — John 14:15 (NIV)
When Following Jesus Looks Different for Everyone
For some, the road is filled with daily trials—deep, painful, even dangerous. For others, the struggle may not be persecution, but a quiet battle within choosing Christ over comfort, truth over approval, and surrender over self. Even though our struggles aren’t the same, that doesn’t mean the journey is easy. Walking with Jesus always takes courage, sacrifice, and trust.
Let’s be real—if following Jesus was easy, even people who don’t care to change would still receive the blessings God promises His children. However, just like in life, where you don’t get real success without effort, the Christian walk takes commitment. God’s grace saves us, yes—but living for Him means choosing obedience, surrender, and sometimes sacrifice. You can’t cut corners when it comes to faith. The path isn’t easy, but it’s the one that leads to real joy and peace. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being faithful. So ask yourself: What are you really living for?
“God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind.” — Numbers 23:19 (NIV)
When God warns us that the wide gate leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13-14), He’s not being harsh—He’s being loving. He’s showing us what’s true, not what’s popular. We live in a world that often prefers the easy road, the comfortable path, the one that everyone else is on. But comfort without Christ is a trap.
God gave us free will, not so we could do whatever we want, but so we could choose Him. The enemy still uses the same deception he used in Eden—offering what looks good, but leads to ruin. That’s why we must trust what God says, even when it’s hard.
Today, take a moment to reflect: Are you walking through the wide gate or the narrow one? Don’t be fooled by temporary ease. Following Jesus might be hard at times, but it leads to everlasting life. In addition, God—who never lies—will be with you every step of the way.
“Comfort without Christ is a trap. The wide gate may look easy, but it leads to destruction. Choose the narrow path—even if it’s hard—because the God who never lies walks it with you.”
— Inspired by Matthew 7:13-14 & Numbers 23:19
“Did God Really Say That?”
When someone asks, “Is it really God who said the wide gate leads to destruction?”—don’t be shaken.
That question isn’t new. It’s the same question Satan asked Eve in the Garden: “Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1). It’s a seed of doubt meant to blur the truth. Nevertheless, the Word of God is not blurry—it is clear, unchanging, and trustworthy.
Yes—God did say it. “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.” — Matthew 7:13 (NIV). These are the words of Jesus Christ—God in the flesh. His warning isn’t harsh. It’s loving. He’s not trying to control you—He’s trying to save you.
Therefore, when the world questions Him, when voices try to twist the truth, stand firm. God does not lie (Numbers 23:19). What He says, He means.
Moreover, what He means is this: not every road leads to life. Choose wisely. Walk the narrow path. Trust the voice that never changes.
“Yes—God did say it. The wide gate leads to destruction, and the narrow path leads to life. Don’t let doubt rewrite what Jesus clearly spoke. His truth doesn’t change—choose wisely.”
— Charlene L. Kazay | The CLK Quotes
Why Do People Struggle to Follow Christ?
There are many reasons why people might find it difficult to follow Christ:
– Temptations and Worldly Distractions:
In today’s world, the constant pressures of materialism, consumerism, and the pursuit of personal success can easily shift people’s focus away from spiritual growth and following Christ’s teachings. When these distractions surround people, their attention tends to drift, preventing them from prioritizing Christ’s teachings and living a faith-centered life.
– Lack of Understanding or Misinterpretation:
Some may struggle because they do not fully grasp Christ’s teachings or misinterpret them. The Bible can be complex, and different interpretations can lead to confusion or misunderstanding about what it means to truly follow Christ.
When we read the Bible, we should not try to interpret it in a way that alters the true meaning of Scripture. Nor should we misinterpret the Bible or change its meaning to fit personal views. Instead, we should seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to understand God’s Word as He intends, without complicating or distorting its message.
– Hypocrisy and Inconsistencies within the Church:
When the actions of certain Christians or church leaders do not align with Christ’s teachings, it can cause disappointment. Hypocrisy in the church can weaken people’s faith, making it harder for them to follow Christ with conviction.
– Cultural Influences and Societal Norms:
Societal expectations often conflict with Christian values, leaving individuals torn between following Christ and fitting in with the world around them. This internal struggle arises from the fear of rejection or judgment, which can drive people to conform to societal norms and behaviors.
As they seek acceptance, they may prioritize fitting in over staying true to their beliefs. Additionally, the desire to be part of social experiences or trends can further complicate this struggle, as many fear missing out on enjoyable opportunities if they do not conform.
– Personal Struggles and Weaknesses:
Everyone has personal battles, whether it is addiction, mental health struggles, or relationship issues, which can make it hard to fully commit to a life dedicated to Christ.
– Fear of Judgment or Persecution:
Sometimes, following Christ means standing out or going against societal norms, which can invite judgment or even persecution. The fear of being rejected or misunderstood can hold people back from fully living their faith.
– Lack of Spiritual Discipline or Commitment:
Following Christ requires daily discipline—prayer, studying the scriptures, fasting, and living a life of love and service. Some people find it hard to maintain these practices consistently, which can lead to a weakened faith.
Ultimately, following Christ is a journey filled with challenges, and many people face obstacles that make it difficult to fully live according to His teachings.
Finding Strength in Our Walk with Christ
In our sincere walk with Christ, we discover the strength to silence our flesh, aligning our hearts with the will of the Lord (Matthew 26:41). By genuinely following His teachings, we overcome our human weaknesses and desires, living in a way that pleases Him. This requires spiritual vigilance, resisting temptation, and staying committed to God’s path.
The truth is, we need God’s grace for our daily journey with the Lord Jesus Christ, as no one, in their strength, has the power to bear the heaviness of the cross and follow the Lord without God’s help. The Bible emphasizes, “With man, it is impossible, but with God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:25-26).
Challenges arise from various sources: societal pressures, personal struggles, or conflicting priorities. It requires sacrifice and a shift in perspective. Sometimes, it means choosing a harder path that aligns with Christ’s teachings rather than the easier, more popular route.
Nevertheless, here is the wonderful part: when people face these challenges, they often discover meaning in their lives, become stronger, and feel a deeper connection with themselves, God, and others. It is not about being perfect but about striving to live the values Christ taught us in our daily lives.
The path of a true disciple of Christ
Those of us striving to live according to God’s calling may make decisions that seem difficult or confusing to others. Often, our choices affect both ourselves and those around us. Some might perceive us as distant, unapproachable, or unwilling to engage with others, including family and friends. However, this is because our vocation requires a quiet environment.
Some will go beyond their Christian vocation and try to cross the line. We can choose to pursue hobbies, but it will not be the same as for others. Our vocation limits us in certain ways. This path is not for the immature but for adults with revelation and understanding, those mature enough to grasp spiritual matters. It is the most difficult path that true followers of Christ go through.
As I have gotten older, I have noticed that I have become more discreet and cautious about what I share, expressing myself less often. However, this hasn’t stopped me from remaining bold and speaking truthfully whenever necessary. I realize that this more discreet attitude is an aspect of my personality that I had not fully recognized before. Moreover, I am satisfied and at peace with this change; it corresponds to my inner growth and understanding of my vocation and spiritual path.
At some point in my twenties, I served the Lord halfheartedly, which only pleased the devil. During that time, my life was no longer influenced by Biblical or spiritual beliefs, although I mistakenly thought I was still aligned with God’s will. When we stop following Christ as He intends and start living like the world, we step outside of God’s protection, leaving us vulnerable to the enemy, who can then manipulate and disrupt our lives, as he desires.
My priorities, activities, values, and behaviors became centered on worldly, non-religious pursuits. However, coming to my senses and choosing to follow Jesus wholeheartedly changed everything. My conversion to faith destroyed my secular life, shifting my focus significantly away from worldly concerns and towards a life centered on spiritual growth and a relationship with God.
Returning to this path of wholeheartedly following Christ has allowed me to rediscover a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment than I had ever known. Fully committing to Jesus has brought me peace, joy, and a closer relationship with God, for which I am truly grateful.
Taking up one’s cross and following Jesus is not as simple as many think. True followers of Christ often lose almost everything because they have chosen to serve Christ wholeheartedly. There are many things that true Christians no longer do, and that is the reality of the Christian life. As Christians, we cannot live a double life, with one foot in and one foot out. Our lifestyle should genuinely reflect the Christian life if we call ourselves Christians.
I urge us as Christians to align our lifestyle with our faith, ensuring that our actions, values, and choices genuinely reflect what it means to follow Christ. Being a Christian is not merely about claiming the title; it calls for living authentically and with wholehearted devotion to God.
When we observe self-proclaimed Christians whose actions do not align with Christian values, it should not be difficult to distinguish them from non-believers. It should be easy to see that their behavior is similar to that of non-believers. Their lifestyle and choices are not in line with what is expected of a true Christian, making it clear that they are not fully living out their faith.
We must also understand that those who call themselves Christians but continue to live a double life, serving God half-heartedly, may not be ready to embrace their Christian faith fully. It is important to recognize this distinction without doubting ourselves. These individuals may still be on their journey to fully commit to following Christ, or they may never be ready.
Many true followers of Christ may distance themselves from crowds for several reasons:
1. Spiritual Focus:
They seek to deepen their relationship with God, finding that solitude or smaller, more intimate gatherings help them concentrate on prayer, meditation, and studying the Bible.
2. Avoiding Distractions:
Large crowds and social activities can be distracting and may pull them away from their spiritual practices and commitments.
3. Living a Simple Life:
Many strive to live simply and humbly, avoiding the materialism and busyness often found in larger social settings.
4. Pursuit of Purity and Holiness:
They aim to avoid environments where they feel exposed to temptations or behaviors that conflict with their values and beliefs.
5. Vocation Requirements:
Some Christian vocations or callings require periods of retreat and reflection, necessitating time away from the noise and activity of crowds.
In simpler terms, some Christian callings need time alone to pray, reflect, and listen to God. This often means stepping away from busy places and people for a while.
6. Personal Reflection:
Time alone allows for personal reflection, self-examination, and spiritual growth, which are essential for a deeper walk with Christ.
7. Following Jesus’ Example:
Jesus often withdrew from crowds to pray and be alone with God (Luke 5:16). Followers may emulate this practice to strengthen their faith and spiritual discipline.
By embracing these practices, true followers of Christ draw nearer to God, walking daily in faith and staying rooted in the truth that guides their hearts.
To summarize, following Christ is not about a set of rules; it is about a transformative journey—a continuous process of growth, understanding, and love. It is not always easy, but it is profoundly fulfilling.
I’ll leave you with these two reflections rooted in Scripture:
There’s a quiet beauty in choosing to walk fully with Jesus. The road isn’t always smooth—there are valleys, thorns, and shadows. But in the midst of it all, there is a peace that softly settles, a love that holds steady, and a truth that never fails.
When your soul feels weary and your burdens grow heavy, listen for His whisper:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28, NIV)
To follow Christ wholeheartedly is not to walk a life free of storms—but to walk with the One who calms them. Trials will still arise, but they no longer define us. In His presence, the weight we carry finds rest. So when life feels too heavy, do not hesitate to let go. Give it to the One whose hands bear the scars of love.
“Cast all your cares on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)
Prayer:
Our Father who art in heaven,
Hallowed be your name.
Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
For you are glorious and worthy to be praised—
You are the Lamb upon the throne.
Father God,
I come before you with a humble heart, acknowledging the challenges that come with following Christ. Your Word tells us that the path may be difficult, but with you, all things are possible.
I pray for strength and discipline for my fellow believers who may be struggling. Grant them the grace to walk with you faithfully, even in the face of difficulties.
May their love for Jesus be the driving force in their lives, surpassing any challenge that may arise. Father, help them to remember that, through your strength, they can overcome all obstacles.
In Jesus’ name I pray,
Amen.
Thank you for taking the time to explore The CLK’s articles and quotes. I hope these insights encourage you to reflect on the theme Is Following Christ Difficult? Don’t forget to check out my other articles for more inspiration and wisdom.
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