The Daily Call to Die

Devotional 
Nobody likes to talk about death, especially when it comes to ourselves. Yet Jesus made it clear that following Him requires a daily death - not a physical one, but something far more challenging: dying to our own will, desires, and agenda. This isn't a one-time decision we make at salvation; it's a daily choice that shapes every moment of our lives. Think about your typical day. How many times do you choose what you want over what God wants? How often do you prioritize your comfort over His calling? Taking up the cross daily means saying 'no' to ourselves so we can say 'yes' to Him. It means choosing His way when our way seems easier. It means trusting His timing when we want things now. This kind of death doesn't feel good - it's uncomfortable, challenging, and goes against every natural instinct we have. But here's the beautiful paradox: when we die to ourselves, we actually find real life. When we surrender our small plans, we discover His magnificent purposes. The cross isn't just about Jesus dying for us; it's about us dying with Him so we can truly live.

Bible Verse
'I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.' - Galatians 2:20

Reflection Question
What specific area of your life is God asking you to 'die to' today, and what would it look like to surrender that area completely to Him?

Quote
What matters is carrying the cross. Jesus said to those who will follow me, you must take up your cross. What daily. What does it mean to take up his cross daily? That means living a life of complete sacrifice, of complete surrender.

Prayer
Jesus, dying to myself feels scary and uncomfortable, but I know it's the path to real life. Help me identify the areas where I'm still holding on too tightly. Give me the strength to let go and trust You completely, knowing that Your plans are always better than mine. Amen.