When was the last time obeying Jesus actually cost you something? Not just a little inconvenience, but something real—your comfort, your reputation, your sense of security. We live in a culture designed for ease, but discipleship has never been about convenience. Jesus didn’t call His followers to a life of comfort—He called them to a life of surrender. Luke 9:23 makes it plain: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”

The truth is, comfort often keeps us from growth. We like security, predictability, and control. Yet those very things can lull us into spiritual apathy. Faith is built in the uncomfortable spaces—when we’re stretched, when we’re uncertain, when obedience feels risky. Just like Peter stepping out of the boat, we grow most when we leave the safety net behind and trust Jesus with the outcome.

I’ve seen this firsthand in my own journey. Almost twelve years ago, God called my wife and me to move to Alaska. It didn’t make sense on paper, and we were short on money to make it happen. But God provided in unmistakable ways—through a generous gift from a church elder, through an apartment that opened at the perfect time, and even through a “brown house” my three-year-old son had been praying for. Those moments reminded me that while obedience costs, God always shows up to meet our needs.

That’s the paradox of discipleship: obedience may feel like loss at first, but it’s actually the doorway to life. It aligns us with God’s will, positions us to see His provision, and deepens our relationship with Him. You may not see the reward immediately, but you will never regret saying yes to Jesus.

So here’s the question worth asking: what’s one uncomfortable “yes” you’ve been putting off? Maybe it’s a conversation you’ve avoided, a ministry step that feels too big, or a financial decision that stretches your trust. Whatever it is, take the step. Obedience may not be easy, but it’s always worth it. And your “yes” might just be the ripple that changes everything.