Cost of the Colors of the Kingdom

Alright now, butterbean, come on down here off that there porch and let’s mosey on over yonder to git under the shade of that there big ol’ pecan tree. Shoo that bossy ol’ rooster outta your way and settle in real easy‑like. We’re ’a-fixin’ to chew on a truth that’ll stick to your ribs better than meemaw’s Sunday pot roast: followin’ Jesus is a privilege, even when it costs somethin’.

Philippians 1:29 lays it out plain as cornbread: “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.” Now, we love the “believe in Him” part, you know, ‘a-thinkin’ of eternal life, forgiveness, clean slate, fresh start. That’s sweeter than peach cobbler with extra crumbles sprinkled on it. But Paul says, “Hold your horses, there’s more!” Believin’ in Jesus also means ‘‘a-wearin’ His colors, like you’re on His team, jersey and all, and not ashamed of it either.

And let me tell you, pumpkin seed, once you put on that Jesus jersey, not everybody’s ‘a-gonna clap for you. Some folks’ll treat you like a skunk at a lawn party. They may not say it to your face, but behind your back you become “one of those people.” Friendships may even fizzle out. Business deals may dry up quicker than a mud puddle in August. But compared to what early believers faced, ‘a-losin’ homes, families, even their lives, our troubles are about as small as a chihuahua ‘a-barkin’ at a freight train.

James 1:2–3 reminds us, “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials ‘cause you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” Joy? In trials? By thunder, that there sounds about as natural as a cat ‘a-wearin’ cowboy boots. But Scripture says our struggles grow us, stretch us, and make us sturdier than a fence post sunk in concrete.

And don’t forget that across the world today, believers are still ‘a-payin’ a mighty high price for ‘a-wearin’ Jesus’ colors. Nearly 6,000 Christians were killed for their faith last year. One in seven faces persecution. So, when we face pushback, awkwardness, or loss, we’re ‘a-joinin’ a long line of brave souls who said, “I’m with Jesus, no matter what.”

So, as you step into your day, acorn sprout, ask yourself: Am I willin’ to stand tall for Christ, even if it’s gonna cost me somethin’? This ain’t about ‘a-bein’ a fan in the bleachers. It’s about ‘a-bein’ a follower on the field.

Father, thank You for the privilege of followin’ Jesus. Give me courage when it’s costly, strength when it’s heavy, and joy when the road gets rough. Help me wear Your colors boldly and love others deeply. In Jesus’ holy name, Amen.

Now get on out there, bug, and wear that Jesus jersey proud like a feisty ol’ rooster ‘a-struttin’ at sunrise ‘a-knowin’ your Savior is ‘a-walkin’ every step right there beside you.

With joy,

Gwen