Self Denial

N.T.#381 "Self Denial"

Sept. 2, 2024 

Mark 8-Part 10

LET IT GLOW 

This example is not to toot my own horn, but to challenge you, my friend. Last week, some of our church people decided to help out a sister church by providing a meal for those in a neighboring community. (Tornado victims are still restoring homes.) Four of us cooked, and others helped us serve supper. It is quite an experience to be able to reach out with what we have to meet needs of so many people. But what a blessing it was, too. It seemed like a little sacrifice of time and energy, but the blessings are great. How do you help others in your community?

We got our marching orders from our King, Jesus. If we are going to serve the Master, then we need to obey Him, right? That includes denying ourself (turn from selfish ways), taking up our cross, and following Jesus, the Savior. After all, He is the way, the truth, and the life. 

What else did Jesus instruct about our life as we following Him?

1. If we hang onto our life, we will lose it. 
2. If we give up our life for Jesus' sake and for the Good News, we will save it.

When we encounter danger or are threatened, we go into self-preservation mode. Life is a valuable thing and a natural thing to avoid suffering and pain, or even death. If we fail to lay down our life, deny Christ, give up a profession of Him and His Gospel, then we forfit peace, happiness, pleasure for comfort.

Yet, if we are willing to give up whatever is required of us (job, money, comfort, time, material things), for Jesus to have His purpose accomplished will not regret it. Blessings of abundant life and a home in glory await those who obey and follow Jesus.

Are we willing to do whatever it takes in order for others to be saved? Will we give up inconveniences and difficulties so we identify with Jesus? Or will we forfeit a relationship with Jesus now? Do we tell our desires no when it comes to a conflict with the kingdom work, or the Word?

Friend, have you asked Christ to forgive your sins and be your Savior? His mercy is willing to forgive.

LET IT GROW

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (verses 35-36)

This world is only temporal. Eternity is forever. 

C.T. Studd wrote, "Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last."

Dear one, let's not make the pleasures of world replace the true meaning of life-loving and serving Jesus. That is our challenge this week.

LET IT GO 

May we choose a life of following You, Jesus, rather than lead a life of sin and self-satisfaction.

Direct us daily as Your servants.

Keep us in submission to You.

Whatever we do, in word or deed, may it be for Your glory.