Why Following Jesus Is a Daily Choice

“Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’” Luke 9:23 

Following Jesus Every Day

When we think about following Jesus, it can be tempting to imagine only the big moments of faith. We think about church services, mission trips, or times when we have to make a major decision. Jesus reminds us in Luke 9:23 that following Him is not just a one-time choice. It is a daily choice.

Jesus says we are to “take up our cross daily.” In Jesus’ day, a cross was not a piece of jewelry or a decoration. It was a symbol of surrender and sacrifice. When Jesus tells us to take up our cross, He is inviting us to put Him first every single day. That daily choice often happens in ordinary moments.

It happens when we choose kindness instead of anger, tell the truth even when it is difficult, forgive someone who hurt us, and when we spend time in God’s Word instead of filling every spare moment with distractions.

Following Jesus is not about being perfect. It is about continually choosing Him, even when it is hard. Some days that choice feels easy. Other days it takes courage and faith. The good news is that Jesus walks with us every step of the way.

As families, we can encourage one another to make those daily choices. Parents can model faithfulness for their children. Children can learn that following Jesus is part of everyday life, not just something we do on Sundays.

Every morning is a new opportunity to say, “Jesus, I choose to follow You today.”

Family Discussion Questions

1. What do you think Jesus meant when He said, “Take up your cross daily”?
2. What are some everyday choices that help us follow Jesus?
3. Can you think of a time when it was difficult to do what Jesus would want you to do?
4. How can our family encourage one another to follow Jesus throughout the week?
5. What is one way you can choose Jesus today?

Family Prayer

Dear Jesus, Thank You for loving us and inviting us to follow You. Help us to choose You each day, not just on Sundays. Give us courage to obey You in the big moments and the small moments. Help our family encourage one another to live for You and trust You every day. Amen.