Embracing Our Cross to Follow Christ

Jesus said we must take up our cross and follow Him, but what does that look like in real life? Here are four transformative ways we can embrace this call and follow Christ’s example daily.

1. Deny Ourselves

Before we take up our cross, we must first deny ourselves, letting go of our own agendas. Jesus emphasized the need for self-denial before discipleship. By setting aside our personal desires, we open ourselves to God's greater plan. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus says, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." This act of self-denial means putting God’s will above our own. When we confess Christ, others will notice, and persecution might follow. Friends may not understand the change in us because they are still blinded by the world (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). Embracing this transformation requires us to die to ourselves, symbolically holding a funeral for our self-will, and trusting in Christ completely.

2. Take It Up

Jesus' disciples understood the horror of the cross, witnessing many crucifixions. When Jesus said, "take up your cross," it was a call to action (Matthew 16:24). This means humbling ourselves and accepting the challenges that come with following Him. Jesus cannot take up our cross for us; it’s a personal commitment. Being on our knees in humble submission is the first step to receiving and carrying our cross. Jesus makes it clear in Matthew 10:38, "whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me." This profound statement emphasizes the importance of our willingness to endure hardships for His sake.

3. Embrace Our Unique Cross

Taking up our cross means accepting the unique challenges and persecutions we face for following Christ. Each person’s cross is different, shaped by their life circumstances. Paul warns against comparing ourselves to others (2 Corinthians 10:12). Our cross could be losing a job for integrity, being ostracized for our faith, or facing family rejection. For many believers worldwide, it involves imprisonment or torture for Christ’s sake. Carrying the cross is not about daily inconveniences but about enduring persecution and shame for Jesus. This perspective helps us understand the true meaning of taking up our cross.

4. Follow Him

In the gospels, Jesus consistently calls His disciples to follow Him. They left everything immediately to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20). This act of faith and obedience serves as a model for us. Following Christ means adhering to His teachings and commands. Jesus’ great commission in Matthew 28:18-20 instructs us to "go into all the world" and "make disciples of all nations." This mission requires us to live out His teachings and share His love with others, regardless of the cost.

Conclusion

To be His disciples, we must deny ourselves, take up our unique cross, and follow Him faithfully. This journey involves daily dying to self, enduring persecution, and living out Christ’s teachings. By embracing these steps, we draw closer to Jesus and fulfill our calling as His followers.

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