Luke 9:23 (ESV)
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
DEVOTIONAL
To follow Jesus is to surrender the throne of your life to Him. “Denying self” does not mean self-hatred or a rejection of your God-given worth—it means putting to death the sinful, self-centered way of living that insists, “I am the master of my life.”
When Christ calls you, He does not invite you to merely add Him to your schedule or sprinkle a little religion over your plans. He calls you to renounce the right to control your own life. This means saying “no” to the desires, ambitions, and habits that are contrary to His will, and saying “yes” to His Lordship, even when it is costly.
The flesh wants comfort, approval, and control. Jesus calls us to obedience, sacrifice, and trust. The world says, “Believe in yourself.” Jesus says, “Deny yourself.” This is not a loss—it is the path to life. For only when we die to self do we truly live for Him.
Reflection: Where in your life is Jesus calling you to say “no” to self so you can say “yes” to Him?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You gave everything for me. Forgive me for the times I have lived for myself instead of for You. Teach me daily to surrender my plans, my pride, and my preferences to Your will. Give me the courage to take up my cross and follow You with joy. May my life display that You are my greatest treasure. Amen.