How can we prioritize following Jesus over personal desires, as Matthew 10:38 instructs? Setting the Verse in Context “Whoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.” (Matthew 10:38) Jesus speaks these words while commissioning the Twelve, reminding them—and us—that allegiance to Him outranks every competing loyalty, even life itself. What It Means to “Take Up Your Cross” • Cross-bearing is not minor inconvenience; it is an intentional choice to die to self-rule. • In first-century ears, the cross symbolized execution. Jesus calls His followers to embrace the same total surrender. • The call is daily (Luke 9:23), not a one-time decision. Identifying Personal Desires That Compete with Christ • Comfort and security (Matthew 8:20) • Reputation and approval (John 12:42-43) • Possessions and wealth (Matthew 6:24; 19:21-22) • Personal dreams and ambitions (Philippians 3:7-8) • Sinful patterns and fleshly appetites (Romans 8:13) Practical Steps to Prioritize Jesus 1. Examine Motives Daily – Ask: “Would I still choose this if Christ said no?” (Psalm 139:23-24) 2. Surrender Plans in Prayerful Obedience – Lay agendas before Him and wait for His direction (Proverbs 3:5-6). 3. Feed on Scripture Regularly – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). – Scripture reshapes desires to match His (Psalm 37:4). 4. Practice Self-Denial in Small Choices – Fast from comforts, give generously, serve quietly (Matthew 6:3-4). – Small obediences train the heart for larger sacrifices. 5. Cultivate Eternal Perspective – “Set your minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2-3). – Remember that present losses are incomparable to future glory (Romans 8:18). 6. Surround Yourself with Cross-Carriers – Fellowship with believers who model costly faith (Hebrews 10:24-25). 7. Rely on the Spirit’s Power – “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). – The Spirit enables what the flesh cannot (Romans 8:11-14). The Blessing of Putting Jesus First • Assurance of true discipleship (John 10:27-28) • Deeper intimacy with Christ (John 14:21) • Freedom from slavery to self (John 8:36) • Eternal reward that outweighs every earthly loss (Matthew 19:29) A Closing Encouragement Christ never asks for more than He has already given. Because He bore the ultimate cross for us, we can bear ours in grateful confidence, knowing that in losing our lives for His sake, we actually find them (Matthew 10:39). |
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