“When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, ‘Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.’” — Mark 8:34-35 (NKJV)
Do you want to live a life that has both earthly and eternal impact? If so, you must consider denying yourself to follow Christ, the heir of the world, the author and finisher of our faith, and the way to God the Father (John 14:6). This might sound counterintuitive to those with a worldly mindset, but the truth is that this is the key to a meaningful life. In the grand scheme of things, everything we chase after in this world is vanity. The only thing that truly counts is Jesus Christ. He is the greatest treasure anyone can have in this life because He guarantees a life of true value—both now and in eternity.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate life insurance that every person needs. If you choose to follow Him and allow Him to lead you, He will add value to your life and make it worthwhile. You might wonder how this is possible. Well, Jesus Himself said, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it” (Mark 8:34-35 NKJV).
In the Message translation, the same passage says: “…anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I will show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way—my way—to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? What could you ever trade your soul for?” This reveals that there is a “true you” that only emerges when you deny yourself and follow Jesus.
So, if you truly want your life to count, stop trying to lead yourself and make everything happen on your own. Instead, lean on Jesus. Learn from Him, and let His words guide your steps in all that you do. You will not regret it. In fact, you will find joy and purpose beyond anything the world can offer. Praise God!
Today’s Rhema
No Jesus, no meaningful life!
Confession for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for providing me with the opportunity to live a meaningful life, and that opportunity is in Jesus. I declare that I will not take this advantage for granted, but will embrace it fully because in Him lies my life and my future. Thank You, Father, in the name of Jesus. Amen!
