| “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me,” Luke 9:23. What strong language from Jesus. Often we view salvation as a simple prayer we pray, a small belief in our hearts, and the deal is done. What Jesus calls for is a total devotion to him, which is a death to self. However, he also promises that this is indeed the path to life, eternal life. All the other stuff we live for passes away. Only our life in Christ goes on. While I admit that this teaching of Jesus is hard to follow, we must remember Jesus is offering us life that is good for us. Take some time now to pray and ask Jesus if there are areas in your life that are not given to him. Things that have a place in your thoughts, in your schedule or in your budget that are preventing you from following him. They may even be good things but are not the ultimate thing. As Jesus brings things to mind, write them down. Begin to pray about giving them over to him. Ask for his help to do so. Let today be a day when you indeed deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow him. |
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Day 4: I am the Bread of Life