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.
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