Scripture:
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me]. Mathew 16:24 AMP
The scripture above tells us clearly how to live as disciples of Christ. It's not mere talk, but living in such a way that our lives attest to our faith. Following Christ is not a walk in the park. If we decide to genuinely follow Christ, we have to die to self. We have to remove all forms of selfishness, pride, ego, boasting, etc out of our lives, and live humble disciplined lives. Christ himself said we should use him as our benchmark. What are some things we can learn from Christ? He didn't brag neither did he show off. Even after performing mighty miracles, he would warn them not to broadcast it. Apostle Paul said "everything is permissible but not all things are beneficial". We can engage in all things but will that grow us or stunt us? If we truly want to be following Christ, we should be ready and willing to cut out the extra frills that slow us down. We cannot walk parallel to his ways and claim to be following him.
Let's pray: May we not falsely proclaim you as Lord, even while we live fake lives. Help us to conform to you and your ways. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen
