Matthew 10:38-39 ESV And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. (39) Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

Jesus took up His cross on the road to Calvary for me only once, but once was enough. He bore the sin of the world when He was crucified that day almost two thousand years ago. My bondage to sin was defeated and today I will take up my own cross. Not on my own strength, but by the power of the One who defeated death. I will die to myself and my selfish desires and willingly follow Christ. As I lose my life I am promised by God that I will find it for Him. What a wonderful promise knowing that all of eternity awaits as I die to myself for His sake.

Lord, thank you for your provision and strength. The cross was a symbol of death, but taking it up for your sake brings life. Help me today to follow you by sacrificing those things that my flesh would desire and help conform my will to yours. May I be a blessing to you and to those around me as I die to myself and follow you. Amen