Self Denial
From my observations of people in our culture it seems that the hardest thing about following Jesus is denying self. We live in such a self-centered time. Everything we read, see, and hear is telling us to do what we desire to do and to make ourselves happy. Well, how is that working for us? It seems that most people never achieve true happiness and peace by searching on their own and practicing what they think is the best for them. Instead, those people who are truly joyful and at peace, so that they are truly happy are those who have denied themselves to fully follow Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. (Matthew 16:24) I believe the reason for that is Jesus loves us more than we love ourselves, so His way for us is always the best way for us.
Jesus told His disciples the requirements to come after Him, and self denial came first. The reason for that is we can't follow two masters. If we try to do that we are constantly torn between the two. When we choose to fulfill our own will, instead of submitting to Jesus, we feel guilty, and we know we have sinned. That sin brings separation from God, and we can't be truly happy in that condition. True joy comes when we are right with God and walking closely with Jesus everyday by abiding in His Word and in His will for us. Therefore, we must deny ourselves, be willing to do whatever Jesus asks of us even to the point of death, and follow Him. Then, He will be with us through all that life brings and in His presence there is fullness of joy.
If you are missing something in your life, turn fully to Jesus and give up the right to do your own desires. Follow Him, and He will give you what you are missing and much more.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Matthew 18-20.
Jesus told His disciples the requirements to come after Him, and self denial came first. The reason for that is we can't follow two masters. If we try to do that we are constantly torn between the two. When we choose to fulfill our own will, instead of submitting to Jesus, we feel guilty, and we know we have sinned. That sin brings separation from God, and we can't be truly happy in that condition. True joy comes when we are right with God and walking closely with Jesus everyday by abiding in His Word and in His will for us. Therefore, we must deny ourselves, be willing to do whatever Jesus asks of us even to the point of death, and follow Him. Then, He will be with us through all that life brings and in His presence there is fullness of joy.
If you are missing something in your life, turn fully to Jesus and give up the right to do your own desires. Follow Him, and He will give you what you are missing and much more.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Matthew 18-20.