Daily Devotional – Tuesday, April 26, 2022
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”
Matthew 16:24 (NKJV)
Christianity is the most popular religion in the world. Billions associate themselves with the cross of Jesus Christ. However, how many are willing to bear the cross in their lives as they do around their necks?
The disciples of Jesus knew that crucifixion was the cruelest form of persecution and death for the vilest criminals of the day. Therefore, it was strange when Jesus, after predicting His own death, warned His disciples:
“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matthew 16:24).
Let Him Deny Himself, and Take Up His Cross
The call to discipleship was a call to self-sacrifice. Soon after the ascension of Jesus, the leaders of the Jews hunted down, arrested, imprisoned and even killed the followers of Jesus.
True Christianity remains a lifetime calling. Christ still demands unreserved service and devotion to Him. If persecution arose today, would we still take up our crosses and follow Jesus?
Unlike First Century Christians, we abhor self-denial. We want salvation but we don’t want to obey God. We choose which of God’s commands to obey and the Bible verses to believe and practice.
No Cross: No Crown
We celebrate the life and death of Jesus but are unwilling to sacrifice our sins and pleasures for the sake of the cross. How shall we receive the crown without carrying the cross? Where will victory come from if there is no battle?
Prayer
Lord Jesus I am taking up my cross and follow You once again.
