The cross is not just a popular piece of jewelry but also a unique Christian symbol that represents suffering & sacrifice.
Luke 14:27 says, "Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple."
But as I understand Jesus' words in Luke 14:27, I can't truly follow Him unless I am carrying a cross.
Now, this is not a literal term meaning we have to carry a cross on our shoulder all day long. Cross carrying is a representation of death. Death to the easy way--the world's way. Death to desires. Death to self. This is not a one-time decision either. Through the balance of the work week, through the long months of a marriage in crisis, through the hard-fought seasons of moral struggle.....I must choose daily to pick my cross, again, and again, and again, and follow Him.
When Christ asks you to, "Pick up your cross & follow Me," what exactly is He asking you to carry? Is your cross:
A chronic health issue--physical or emotional?
Giving up fame, prestige and popularity?
Giving up material wealth, financial security & living a lifestyle that you've become accustomed to?
The loss of a dream--infertility, a past divorce, infidelity or the betrayal of a friend?
To be the 'bigger person' in your marriage that is going through a difficult season?
What cross has God called you to carry right now as you follow Him?
The cross around my neck reminds me that I must 'die to self' every day.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
Waiting.....
Waiting marks a woman's life. So many of her experiences test, shape, and develop her capacity to wait. We often patiently go about the daily routines of life. However, perhaps you are waiting for God to reveal a more exciting plan for your life. Ask God to show you the potential for even this time of seeming insignificance to become meaningful and effective service for him.
God can make every passage of life worthwhile. God helps us learn to wait.
God can make every passage of life worthwhile. God helps us learn to wait.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
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