July 14

Luke 9:23-27 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

v. 23 And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me"

Observation

The previous verses in Luke 9:18-22, we encounter Peter confessing Jesus as the "Christ of God." And Jesus began telling them of his fate, his death, and his resurrection. And to make the story even more depressing, Jesus tells his disciples in today's passage in verse 23, to deny themselves and take up the cross daily and to follow him. The word that kept ringing in my heart is the word "denial" of myself. And I wonder if the disciples understood what Jesus meant by this? Because, for me this means that my existence in this life is not about me, but about God. That to deny myself is to withhold any possession, any worth, any prize, any pride, any worldly things for my own gain and for my own treasure. And that I would trade it in for the cross and carry it daily and follow Christ. For there are better rewards and joy in trusting in Christ by following him daily.

Application

This challenge is scary because more and more I realize my own failure to live according to Christ's commands. For many times I feel as if I deny Christ more than myself. I am challenged by the realities of my own failures by not allowing myself to let go of worldly possessions and glory in exchange for God's kingdom. I need to realize what it takes to deny myself and take up the cross daily. I need to realize what it actually takes to follow Christ.

Prayer

Lord, my heart is heavy at the thought of my inconsistent life. Lord, too many times have I denied you in my actions, my words, and choices of life. God, help me to see you and to live in denying myself of my own glory for the sake of your kingdom. Help me to humble myself as I follow you!

--calebskim