Willing to Go Beyond Our Emotions

Today, let’s talk about what’s holding us back from following Jesus. Sometimes we hesitate, not because we don’t want to follow Him, but because we’re afraid of what we’ll have to leave behind. Before we get into it, let’s pray.

Thank You, God, for calling us into a life that is full of purpose and meaning. Help me see what’s holding me back from fully following You. Show me where I’m stuck in my comfort and where I need to take a step of faith. Give me the courage to say YES to You today. Amen.

Matthew 8:21-22 (NLT)

21 Another of his disciples said, “Lord, first let me return home and bury my father.”

22 But Jesus told him, “Follow me now. Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead.”

Ever had one of those moments when you knew exactly what you needed to do, but something kept pulling you back? Maybe it was the comfort of staying put where you were or the fear of what you’d be giving up. In Matthew 8, we see a disciple ask Jesus to let him go back and bury his father. Now, it’s easy to think Jesus was being harsh by saying, “Let the dead bury their own dead,” but let's dive deeper.

The disciple wasn’t making a random excuse. His father likely wasn’t dead yet. He may have been saying, “I need to stay home for security until I’m ready to fully follow You.” It’s like when we say, “I’ll follow Jesus once life calms down, or when I feel worthy.”

I remember when I felt God calling me to leave a secure job and fully step into running my own business. It was very scary because I didn’t know how things would turn out. I wanted to wait until I felt more confident. But the longer I waited, the harder it became. Once I finally made the decision, God was there for me. He showed me the joy and freedom on the other side, but I had to let go of my comfort first.

Jesus is calling us to follow Him now, without hesitation. The longer we hold onto our old life, the harder it is to step into the freedom and life He promises. For me, control is a big part of that. I often struggle with the need to control outcomes, but the truth is, that need for control keeps me stuck. It keeps me mourning my old life, holding onto things God is asking me to release. And sometimes, when I let my emotions drive my decisions, I stay in places that God is calling me to leave.

What are you holding onto today? Is it the comfort of old habits, the security of staying in control, or maybe even the approval of others?

Jesus is calling you now—not after things settle down, not once you’ve got it all figured out. Right now. So, what’s holding you back?

Here’s a prayer to help guide your next step:

“Lord, I know You’re calling me to follow You fully, but I’m holding onto what feels safe. Help me to let go and trust that the life You’re leading me into is far better than what I’m leaving behind.”
I pray God gives you the strength to let go of your past and follow Him to your eternal future.