April 24
The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. - John 12:25, NIV
What is your reaction to that verse? Jesus is the One Who died for you and me! Surely He’s not saying you and I must die for Him! Death is a pretty big stretch from your daily prayer, “God, bless me indeed,” isn’t it? And it’s not nearly as full of wonder and excitement, and if we’re honest, personal profit. God wants to bless you and me even more than we could think to ask, but the power that produces the blessing comes through brokenness and death. And not just any death, but death by crucifixion.
I will tell you honestly from experience that crucifixion is a slow, painful death to your self. It is impossible for victims to crucify themselves. Crucifixion is the result of our decision to yield ourselves to God as He allows various pressures and problems and pain into our lives. They are used to put us to death that we might be raised to an abundant . . . victorious . . . blessed . . . fruitful . . . powerful . . . Christlike . . . Spirit-filled life. And remember-after the Cross comes the resurrection and the glory!
