Daily Devotions
Dying Daily to Self
Reading for October 27th: Luke 8-9
And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."
Luke 9:23
Following Christ is a violent act. When you decide to follow Christ, you are making the decision to die to self. You are dead. Christ is alive in you. You no longer call the shots. You relinquish all control over your life. It's all about Him. He takes over. He sits on the throne of your heart. He rules your life.
But this is not a one time act. It is something that must happen "daily." Though the old self is put to death in baptism, he continually rises back from the dead. Like "Night of the Living Dead," he keeps reviving. Self will not go easily or quietly. He puts up a fight. Though you put him to death a thousand times, you'll have to crucify him a thousand more.
Father, give us the strength and courage to put the old man to death again today.
