Let’s face it, we live in a society that tells us to be selfish, live outside of your means because ‘you deserve this or that’, and to do whatever you want because ‘that’s all that matters in life’. I always find it fascinating that more often than not, whatever we’ve been taught to do by society, scripture will teach us to turn away from. Jesus is very direct in telling us that if we want eternal life with Him, we need to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him. As you can see, our culture and the Bible don’t necessarily see eye to eye on these things.
You have to make the decision, and I believe it’s a daily decision, whom do you want to serve; Jesus or yourself? The “rich, young ruler” in Mark 10:17 had to make this decision. After hearing what Jesus said he needed to sacrifice in order to receive eternity, he chose to serve himself. When we ask Jesus what we need to do to receive eternal life, He will tell us to give up whatever it is that holds us back from Him. For this man, it was all of his possessions; he was not willing to sacrifice those. For us, it can look completely different. We need to examine the areas in our lives that we are holding onto so tightly. Are there areas in your life that are preventing you from taking up your cross and denying yourself? These are the things that won’t enter into the Kingdom, so it’s time to let them go.
There is a song titled “Something New” by an amazing local worship band, Reveal, that speaks volumes to this idea of sacrifice. This specific line has become such an anthem in the current season I am in.
Whatever it takes, God, show me Your ways
I’m willing to waste what this world has to offer
For infinite grace. God, you bore my shame,
Won’t make the mistake of living like I’m my own.
Brothers and Sisters, let us all join together in laying down everything in exchange of Jesus becoming the everything in our lives.
Keep Fighting the Good Fight,
Brenda
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