And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross daily[expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me]. Luke 9:23 The Holy Bible Amplified Version
How many times have you seen children give a grandma a great big hug because she bought them something they wanted? They do not love grandma, they love the gift she has bought them.
How many folks only love Jesus because they want something from Him?
How many are willing to suffer for Him and because of Him?
Look around you and think of what is near and dear to your heart. Would you put it on the alter and sacrifice it to Christ (if it is someone or a pet, please do not physically sacrifice it)? By that, I mean would you give it up in order to become a servant of the most high King? So we will say you are living in a nice home in a nice neighborhood, if Christ called upon you to sell the house, give the money to a charity of His choosing and live in a ghetto, would you do it?
Yes, He has called upon servants to make such a sacrifice, including me.
Would you be obedient unto His commands?
If not, then you are not a true Christian but a marshmallow one. Think of the one you love the most.
If becoming a true Christian meant that they would hate you and disown you, would you sacrifice that relationship for Christ? That means you will never see them or speak to them for the rest of your life. Yes, He has called upon servants to make such a sacrifice, I have witnessed it numerous times in Asia.
“Jesus hath many lovers of His heavenly Kingdom, but few bearers of His Cross. He hath many desirous of consolation, but few of tribulation. Many love Jesus so long as no adversities befall them.” — Thomas à Kempis
Prayer: Thank you for the privilege of enduring numerous trials and tribulations in my relationship with You Jesus Pyyrand (Jesus my best friend). It has blessed me with coming into and ever deeper everlasting loving relationship with You my best friend because of these sufferings. I exalt You in Your wonderful name. Amen.
May the sunshine of Jesus’ sweet love fill your heart today and every day. Joseph a son of Jehovah
February 14, 2019 at 8:58 am
Reblogged this on Be Ye Glad! and commented:
Dying to self is the hardest part of being a Christian but it also bring the most fruit for God’s glory. This post is by Joseph a son of Jehovah.