The Story of God预览

It's possible for us to recognise that Jesus is the Lord, but then miss what his mission is all about.

Self-preservation is a powerful motivating force, and from a worldly perspective, it would make sense to make it our top priority. But Jesus rebuked Peter for this attitude, and he taught that if we want to follow him, we have to deny ourselves and pick up our cross. Jesus prioritises his mission over his life. He prioritises God's will over his own comfort. Out of his great love for you, he laid down his life.

'For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it.' Mark 8:35 (ESV).

This selflessness does not come to us naturally. We can't just muster up the courage to die. We need to be given the supernatural love and self-control that will allow us to lay our lives down and live for Jesus. Ask the Father, and he will give it to you.

Questions: Are you trying to hold on to your life, or are you holding on to Jesus?