Matthew 16 - 9.14.23

Scripture

Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.”

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Observation

In this section of the passage I chose, Jesus is talking to His disciples and telling them exactly what it takes to be one of His TRUE followers. They will have to deny their own ways and sinful desires, so that they could wholly and completely follow Jesus. To deny yourself and take up your cross doesn’t necessarily refer to the daily burdens or problems we face, but rather refers more to the ideal of fully living our lives for Jesus, and identifying with every aspect of His rejection, shame, suffering, and even death.

“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”-Galatians‬ ‭2‬:‭20‬ ‭

Application

How can I take up my cross and follow Jesus today?

For me it starts in the morning. As soon as my alarm clock buzzes, I don’t hit the snooze button, (no matter how tired I am), and get up and have my time with God-(praying, reading His Word, and taking some time doing devotions). It can be seeing someone in need of prayer and compassion, and going over to them and praying and loving on them, no matter how awkward and foolish I may look by doing it. It can be sharing with someone what God has done for me, (sharing the gospel of Christ), no matter if I get rejected or not. Ultimately it is about putting aside anything in my life that takes my focus away from wholeheartedly following Jesus. Like Jesus said to the Father, “Not my will be done, but Your will be done.”

Prayer

Father God, thank You so much for ALL You have done for me and given me. You gave me Your best when You sent Jesus. I pray that I can give You my best in everything I do. May Your Holy Spirit continue to live through me with all that I do and say. May others around me know You more because of it. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. 🙏🏽

-Moses Gaddi