Follow The Leader

By Andrea Merrell

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said . . .

Matthew 4:19 NIV

Who is your best friend? Who do you hang out with the most? Are your friends the “right” kind of friends?

Everyone needs friends and Jesus was no exception. He probably had lots of friends while he was growing up, but when he got older and started His ministry, He had twelve close friends that He called disciples. A disciple is someone who agrees with the beliefs and teachings of another person. Jesus was the leader and His disciples followed Him. They helped Jesus minister to people who were sick or needed help. They also told others about God’s love.

Are you the leader in your group of friends, or do you follow after someone else? If you’re the leader, are you a good influence on those who are following you? When people are watching you and doing what you do, it’s important for you to set a good example.

If you’re following someone else who’s not a good example and they are leading you to say and do things that are not pleasing to God,  it’s time to find a new leader.

Jesus is the best leader you could ever follow. He will never lead you in the wrong direction and He will always help you along the way.

Whether you’re a leader or a follower, Jesus wants to be your very best friend.

Andrea Merrell is a freelance writer and editor with a passion to help others see God’s Word as practicaland relevant for ordinary, everyday life. She has written material for ladies’ groups, marriage retreats, skits, websites, and brochures, and is currently working on three novels and countless devotions. Andrea is a staff writer and copy editor for www.ChristianDevotions.us and www.DevoKids.com, and lives in South Carolina with her husband (and best friend), Charlie. Visit her website at www.andreamerrell.com.