Theme: Trust in Gods Plan
Matthew 16:24-25 "Then Jesus told his disciples, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.'"
Reflection:
Jesus calls us, his disciples on earth, to pick up our cross and follow him each day. For Jesus, the cross he was crucified on was a representation of our sin, shame, and burdens. For us, it is a representation of these things being lifted up to God. Our metaphorical cross is a sign that we are denying the desires of our flesh in order to devote ourselves fully to Christ. This may include the heaviness of the world, trials we have been through, or specific struggles in our faith. Whatever our cross may be, God calls us to bring it to Him, using it to grow closer in our relationship with Him.
This verse also emphasizes that following Jesus is a daily choice. We must make the decision to follow God's plan and bring glory to His name. By making this choice, persecution is expected. Although our journey is not going to be easy, Christ is worthy of our praise each day.
Questions to Consider:
What does your cross consist of today? Is there one aspect of your life that is preventing you from giving your life to God?
Application:
Identify this aspect of your life and discuss with another follower of Christ how you can deny your own desires. Steering away from our flesh-led desires not only brings us closer to God, but it gives us a new identity in Christ.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for giving us a new identity: one that is rooted in Your love and forgiveness. Lord, give us the strength to deny ourselves as we surrender to You. In this generation of those who go against Your Word, give us the courage to stand apart. We do not stand apart for our own glory but so that people may observe our change in heart and desire a new identity in Christ. Lord, everything we do is for Your glory. All of this is in Your holy name, Amen.
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