This week, we are looking at the idea of “counting the cost” and what that means for our relationship with God. We are asking the question: How do I count the cost of moving forward with God?

During this session, we'll be exploring:
+ What it means to be YOKED to His strength and wisdom;
+ How the YES & AMEN of God grants us favor and permission to move forward;
+Why we must COUNT the cost of NOT moving forward with God.
+ How problems GIVE us the OPPORTUNITY to dialogue about POSSIBILITIES ;
+ A unique look at the LIFE of Caleb, David, and Paul in their approach to MOVING forward;
+ A special ACTIVATION to reframe your mindset about the costs of following God!


Key Truths...
+ The idea of counting the cost must be seen through a lens of expectation.
+ When our yes and amen is spoken aloud the journey into something new can begin.
+ Saying “no” to the old allows us to embrace the new.
+ It’s not just about counting the cost to go on with God. It’s about counting the cost of NOT going.
+ Consider your costs in light of God’s greatness.
+ We never talk about the problem; we dialogue about the possibilities.
+ When the cost comes due, pay it gladly.
+ God isn’t looking to take anything good away, He’s intent on giving you a full experience of His majesty, goodness and grace.

Key Scriptures…
+ Matthew 11:30: My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
+ Philippians 3:7-9: But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed, I also count all things loss…for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord. For whom I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.

Activation…
Think of a God choice that you have to make or maybe one that’s on the horizon. Then you can use this assessment tool that I’ve used myself and with others for years:
+ What are your strengths going into this choice?
+ What are your potential weakness or vulnerabilities?
+ What are your opportunities?
+ What are the threats? What giants and obstacles are present?

Write all those down and then consider these questions:
+ What will it cost you?
+ What are you risking? What could you lose?
+ What could you gain?
+ What promises do you have that could apply here?

Then ask the Holy Spirit to show you His perspective of your “Promised Land.” As you pray, worship and talk with Him, look through His lens. What’s the outcome you see now?

I think you’ll discover in this session that “ the cost of following Jesus” has a whole new meaning.

As always, love the learning. Thanks for listening, I appreciate it!

-Graham