Following is Leading
1. Following Takes Trust
Psalm 139:16b NIV
All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
2. Following Requires Letting Go
"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.
~Henry David Thoreau
Luke 14:26-27 MSG
One day when large groups of people were walking along with him, Jesus turned and told them, “Anyone who comes to me but refuses to let go of father, mother, spouse, children, brothers, sisters—yes, even one’s own self!—can’t be my disciple. Anyone who won’t shoulder his own cross and follow behind me can’t be my disciple.
Luke 14:33 MSG
“Simply put, if you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can’t be my disciple."
3. Following Means Paying Attention
John 10:27 ESV
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
4. Following Brings Life & Fulfillment
Psalm 23:1-4, 6 AMP
The LORD is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], I shall not want. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still and quiet waters. He refreshes and restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort and console me...Surely goodness and mercy and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, And I shall dwell forever [throughout all my days] in the house and in the presence of the LORD.
1 Corinthians 11:1 AMP
Pattern yourself after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ.
