Be With Jesus: The First Call in Discipleship
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, our culture often defines success by what we accomplish. Even in our spiritual lives, we can fall into the trap of measuring our faith by what we do for God rather than simply being with Him. But what if the most important part of following Jesus isn’t about our works but about our presence with Him?
Jesus made this clear when He first called His disciples. Before they preached, healed, or performed miracles, Jesus called them to simply be with Him. Mark 3:13-14 tells us:
“Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach.”
This verse reveals an important truth: Discipleship begins with presence before action. Jesus invites us into relationship first, and everything else flows from that intimacy.
The Danger of Distraction
Many of us struggle to simply be with Jesus because of one major obstacle: distraction.
Consider the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42. Martha was busy preparing and serving, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, soaking in His presence. When Martha complained that Mary wasn’t helping, Jesus gently corrected her:
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42, NIV)
Martha wasn’t doing anything wrong, but she was missing out on the one thing that mattered most—being with Jesus. How often do we allow the busyness of life, ministry, or work to keep us from simply resting in His presence?
The enemy doesn’t just want to steal your time; he wants to steal your intimacy with Jesus. If he can keep you distracted, he can keep you from hearing God’s voice and obeying His direction.
The Invitation to Rest
Jesus offers a better way. He calls us to trade our striving for His presence:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29, NIV)
Unlike the world, which demands constant productivity, Jesus invites us into rest. This doesn’t mean inactivity, but rather learning to operate from a place of connection with Him. Before Jesus ever did ministry, He spent time in the Father’s presence. If He needed that, how much more do we?
Two Practical Ways to Be With Jesus
If we want to grow in our discipleship, we must intentionally create space to be with Jesus. Here are two foundational spiritual practices to help:
1. Sabbath – Prioritizing Rest
The Sabbath isn’t just an Old Testament law; it’s a rhythm God designed for our benefit. Taking one day each week to rest, worship, and enjoy God’s presence realigns our hearts and reminds us that our worth isn’t based on what we do, but on who we are in Christ.
2. Prayer – Daily Connection with Jesus
Prayer is more than presenting requests—it’s an invitation to intimacy. Jesus often withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16). If He needed time alone with the Father, so do we. Set aside intentional, distraction-free moments each day to talk with Jesus and listen for His voice.
The Danger of Ignoring Rest
Ignoring this invitation to be with Jesus can lead to burnout and spiritual exhaustion. In Japan, there’s a phenomenon called Karoshi, which means “death by overwork.” People push themselves beyond human limits, leading to heart attacks, strokes, and extreme stress. Many believe, “I can do more than what’s humanly possible,” but it comes at a dangerous cost.
Spiritually, we do the same thing when we rely on our strength instead of resting in Christ. If Jesus—the Son of God—rested and prioritized being with the Father, shouldn’t we?
How Does God Speak?
One of the greatest benefits of spending time with Jesus is learning to recognize His voice. Mark Batterson, in his book Whisper, outlines seven ways God speaks to us:
- Scripture – The primary way God communicates.
- Desires – When we delight in Him, He shapes our hearts.
- Doors – God opens and closes opportunities.
- Dreams – He speaks through visions and revelations.
- People – Wise counsel from mentors and friends.
- Promptings – The Holy Spirit gives nudges and convictions.
- Pain – God can use suffering to shape us.
We must make space to listen if we want to hear His voice clearly.
Reflection: Are You Making Space for Jesus?
Take a moment to ask yourself:
- When was the last time I truly rested in God’s presence?
- Am I prioritizing time with Jesus, or am I too distracted?
- What’s one thing I need to say “no” to in order to say “yes” to being with Jesus?
Final Challenge: Be With Jesus This Week
Jesus calls us first and foremost to be with Him. Will you accept His invitation? This week, make an appointment with Jesus and keep it like your life depends on it—because it does. Take 30 seconds right now to simply be in His presence.
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