In It For The Long Haul

Read 1 John 2:24-28

"In it for the long haul." Most of us have heard that phrase before, some have even used it. In the trucking industry there are short hauls (loads that are carried relatively short distances) and then there are long hauls (loads that are carried for thousands of miles and may even takes days or weeks to accomplish). A long haul trucker has to deal with issues that a short haul trucker doesn't...things like how to deal with mechanical problems, making sure he has enough fuel, making sure he get's enough rest along the way so he can complete his trip, making sure he has spare tires and other parts that might give out during the trip, etc. Long haul trucking is a career that requires a considerable amount of commitment on the part of the trucker! He could be gone from family for long periods of time and the job places demands on him physically, emotionally and spiritually! If he's going to do the job, and do it well, he's got to make sure he's in it for the long haul b/c you can't just get halfway to your destination, decide you want to quit and just leave your truck sitting on the side of the road!

John says that the Christian life is pretty similar. It's a commitment to a lifestyle, not just a church or an hour of worship each week. It's not easy being a Christian and there are demands placed on those who follow Christ...physically, emotionally and spiritually! It's not a lifestyle for the faint at heart...in fact, the only way you'll be successful at it is if you're determined to be in it for the long haul! Each follower of Christ must count the costs of discipleship and decide for himself if it's a price he's willing to pay (Jesus called that "taking up your cross"). For those who stick with it, John points out that there is a huge payoff - ETERNAL LIFE!

FAQ:
- Have you counted the cost of what it means to be a Christian?
- How is being a Christian costly?
- What are the benefits of following Christ?

"The ability to stand by one's principles, to live with integrity and faith according to one's belief—that is what matters, that is the difference between a contribution and a commitment." - Howard W. Hunter