To be a true follower of Jesus Christ will not only mean calling myself a Christian or attending church services on Sundays. When I was seriously thinking about this subject, I came to understand that the aspect of discipleship is normal and a lifelong obligation. It is about walking with Jesus in my entire heart, listening to His teachings and having His life reflected in me. According to Jesus Himself, He said, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross day by day, and follow me (Luke 9:23). This verse broadened my horizons to the fact that I must sacrifice, humble myself and give myself fully in order to be His disciple.
A real disciple is one who is ready to deny the worldly pleasures and the will of God at all times. In the case of Jesus calling of His first disciples, they left their nets instantly and followed Jesus (Matthew 4:19-20). It is a great obedience and faith. This is one of the thoughts that have taken me hours and it has convicted me that there are many occasions when I would like to walk in the ways of Christ but still keep my own interests. But a true follower places Jesus first before family, riches and personal comfort as well. According to Jesus, he who loves father or mother more than I, is unworthy of me (Matthew 10:37). This does not imply that family is unimportant but because our love to God should be the best.
Love is another fact that makes a disciple. Jesus said, By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, By love to one another (John 13: 35). In my perception, the love is not about words only but actions, to help the others, to forgive, to show kindness and to be patient, when it is hard. An authentic disciple is an imitation of the Jesus personality in life.
To sum up, a real follower of Jesus Christ is one who obeys Him, sets an example of Jesus, loves others with all his heart and is loyal to Him in any case. Now I realize that discipleship is not merely a title, as I proceed on my spiritual journey. It is also a way of life that is practiced daily, and is characterized by fear of God, love toward human beings and absolute dedication to Christ.
Living our life according to his word will make us true believers.