Matthew 16:24-25

Matthew 16:24-25 (ESV): “24 Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”

Living life to the fullest for Christ requires sacrifice.  It begins with denying yourself and continues with serving others no matter the cost.  This is the life Jesus called His followers to live.

After Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, Jesus revealed that He would suffer many things, be rejected by the religious leaders, be killed, and rise again on the third day.  Peter could not understand such a statement and rebuked the Lord for saying it.  Jesus responded by making it clear that not only was He going to lay down His life, but anyone who follows Him must be willing to do the same for the sake of the Gospel.  This is the path to a full and meaningful life!

Are you willing to live the way Jesus lived?  He denied Himself and willingly gave His life on the cross to serve and save mankind.  In doing so, He left us an example to follow.  Jesus warns that those who try to preserve their lives for themselves will ultimately lose them.  Following Christ is not casual Christianity; it is a call to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him wholeheartedly.  Don’t live for this world.  Live for the Lord.  Amen?

Father, thank You for calling us to a life that truly matters.  Help us to follow the example of Your Son by denying ourselves and surrendering fully to Your will.  Strengthen us by Your Spirit to live boldly for Christ and not for this passing world.  In Jesus’ name, amen.