Living a Surrendered Life
- Shawna Jones
- May 23, 2023
- 2 min read
(5/23/23)
(37) “' Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. (38) Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me.'"
Jesus requires His disciples to be completely devoted to Him with a devotion that rivals their love for family and even themselves. Jesus didn't die so that we could continue living for ourselves. Instead, the freedom we've been given in Him should be used to live a life pleasing to God. This idea is continued in Matthew 16:24 where Jesus states, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'" To deny oneself means putting to death one's own will, satisfactions, and plans in order to pursue those of God. No longer should our focus be on doing what would only make us happy. Instead, we should seek to glorify God in all that we do. Next, we must take up our cross daily. About taking up your cross David Guzik says, "Your cross isn't really your particular trial or trouble. The cross means one thing: death- death to self, but resurrection life unto God." There is no room for living for self when following Jesus. Dying to self is a requirement for following Him. The third thing we must do is follow. Commit yourself to following in Jesus' footsteps; living in the way that He lived and obeying His commands. Jesus served, He sacrificed, and He surrendered His earthly life to God in order for God's will to be done. If we truly wish to follow His example, we must also do the same.
God, help me to realize that my life is not my own. Lead me in following Jesus' example of surrender and help me to be committed to You. Forgive me for when I live for myself. Let me live for Your glory and in a way pleasing to You.
In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.
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