How To Deny Yourself?

What does it mean to deny yourself? (Luke 19:23).

The sinful man thinks for himself. He is selfish and seeks to do his will. He does not know God’s will. (Philippians 2:21).

Is it easy to deny oneself? Not! Not without the grace of God in our lives.

The believer has been given the grace to deny himself. God has given believers a sound mind, love and power to deny themselves.

Why do believers need to deny themselves?

Because Jesus said it. Why did Jesus say it? It is the only way to overcome this life on earth. Jesus became the example for us to follow, to deny self.

Denying self is a practical direction that includes taking up the cross and following Jesus daily.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO DENY SELF?

In Galatians 2:20, Scripture says, My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who lives, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Paul lived the law to the letter. He was an exemplary Jew. He thought he lived a life pleasing to God till he met Jesus and realised he was living a wretched life.

Secondly, we belong to God. He owns us (1 Corinthians 6). Are you willing to lose your life for the Gospel's sake? Are you willing to serve God all the days of your lives? Peter denied Jesus, but when he understood God's love, he gave his life for Him.

• David desired to dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

• Ruth gave up all to become His.

• Esther was willing to lose her life for Israel, God's children

The apostles called themselves;

• Slave (James 1:1) (Romans 1:1)

• Prisoner (Ephesians 3:1) (Philemon 1:1)

• Servant (1 Peter 2:16) (John 12:26)

None of the above identities has a say in their lives. They do as they are told. They live denying self in service of their Master or Lord - not out of compulsion, but love.

Wouldn't you be a slave of God rather than anyone else? God also calls us sons and daughters, co-heirs to the throne of God. Remaining under the hand of God is the only way to live a life denying self. He gives us the grace.

Examine your life, dear saint. Are you living for eternity? We are almost there.

Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.