While it’s relatively easy to get married, it’s harder to have a good marriage. Repeating a vow is one thing, being faithful to the content of that vow is another. And what makes the difference between the two is work, intentionality, humility, self-denial, and maturity. And while many aren’t willing to invest the time and effort necessary, those that do know that it’s worth it because the sacrifice leads to reward and enjoyment.

It’s the same with the Christian life. Relatively speaking, it’s simple to become a Christian (by believing in the person and work of Jesus Christ) but harder to be a disciple, to be one who takes up their cross daily and follows Jesus, killing sin and loving holiness. The latter takes work, intentionality, humility, self-denial, and Spirit-wrought maturity. But, as any seasoned saint will tell you and, more importantly, the Scriptures tell us, it’s worth it because the sacrifice leads to reward and enjoyment. As believers lean into the knowability of Christ—who he is, what he’s done, and what he’s doing—we experience intimacy with Christ and his people. And this supernatural fellowship is well-worth the effort.