Denying Self

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*_Denying Self


Luke 9:23 echoes a crucial truth: *"If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me."* To truly follow Jesus, we must ultimately submit our desires to His will.


Following Jesus entails a fundamental shift in our priorities. It means relinquishing our selfish desires and embracing His will. It might entail selling possessions, abandoning behaviors that conflict with His teachings, or engaging in actions that initially make us uncomfortable. It's about the end of our wants and the beginning of aligning our desires with what Jesus desires for us.


Is it worth it, you might ask? Jesus Himself emphasizes the value of following Him by posing a thought-provoking question in Mark 8:36: *"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?"* While following Jesus might demand sacrifice, the eternal benefits far outweigh any earthly cost.


Truly following Jesus means no longer serving ourselves but serving Him. It's about submitting our will to His and acknowledging His lordship in our lives. Though the cost might seem high at times, the rewards are immeasurable.


Let us remember that the temporary sacrifices made in following Jesus are nothing compared to the eternal treasures and the fulfillment found in living according to His will.

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