Mark 8:34
Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.
~ Jesus
Pondering Point
Knowing that Jesus took up His cross for you and knowing that He will never drive you away, let’s prepare to come to Him fully submitted, willing to deny ourselves and, taking up our cross, put God above even our own goals and agendas for life. To ‘take up your cross’ is equivalent to being willing to deny self – or to put off your old self, as Paul says, "which is being corrupted in by its deceitful desires and to be made new in the attitude of your mind." (Ephesians 4:22-23).
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I want to be Your disciple; help me follow You fully and lead this time of reflection about following You. Amen. (Ok, now reflect with Jesus)
Review
Have you ever agreed with Jesus to deny yourself and take up your cross as part of following Him? Have you told Jesus that you will follow Him on His terms?
Repent if necessary
Do you need to repent of trying to alter the biblical terms of following Jesus? Or to repent of letting your “old self” reign in your life rather than Jesus?
Return as necessary
Having counted the cost of following Jesus, agree with God to deny yourself, pick up your cross and follow Jesus.
As you finish this devotion, ask God for strength to maintain this godly attitude throughout the day and week, withstanding any pushback from your sinful flesh.