I have become a Jesus junkie – addicted to this God of ours that speaks to open ears that want to hear. By His Word, He speaks to us … quiet words, strong words, living words that mold hearts and transform lives.
Today, however, His words did not thrill me. To be honest, I was actually disappointed by the words He said. (A horribly bratty thing to say, but it’s true.)
Little man’s nap time created a quiet moment to hear, “Deny yourself.”
Got it. Deny yourself. And…
But there was no ‘and’.
Oh, come on God. I’ve heard that one before. Many, many times. How about something new? A fresh word? (At this point I’m beginning to realize that I talk too much.)
Words of Truth quickly rush in: Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. (Matthew 16:24)
Suddenly, I get it. My lesson for today: first things first.
If I really want to follow Christ, I will always have to start at the beginning. Following Jesus requires living as He did … by living a life of self denial … a life deferred to the will of the Father … a life of sacrifice and surrender.
He asks nothing less of me.
Deny yourself: two words I want to learn to live by.
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