Day 29: Losing Life to Gain It

Jesus teaches a paradox at the heart of discipleship: ‘Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life’ (John 12:25). In other words, the more we cling to comfort, the less space we allow for God’s work within us. Yet when we lay down our lives, even in small and ordinary ways, God uses that surrender to bring forth lasting fruit and eternal blessing.

Sharing faith is one way we “lose” our lives for Christ. It’s rarely comfortable. Our culture often discourages it, and we may face rejection or criticism. Yet when we step outside our comfort zone, we discover that God grows our faith precisely in the act of sharing it.

True life is found not in protecting ourselves but in giving ourselves away. When we embrace sacrificial love in serving, in giving, and in sharing the Gospel, we enter more fully into the life of Christ. In that surrender, God multiplies our efforts and brings forth fruit that builds His kingdom and leads us deeper into joy.

Questions

• How have you experienced growth when stepping outside your comfort zone for Christ?
• What fears hold you back from sharing your faith?