Mark 8:34-35
He called the crowd and his disciples together and said to them, “If anyone wants to follow me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it. But whoever loses his life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it.
Dear Lord Jesus,
No one likes to give up what seems appealing. But our parents often said, “If everyone jumped off a bridge, would you jump?” We live in a world corrupted by sin; wherever we go, sin influences us all. Being a Christian doesn’t mean we are without sin; it means we know to turn to You, admit our sins, and ask for forgiveness when we sin, trusting that You suffered on the cross for all our sins. Therefore, as a result of our faith, our sins are forgiven, and we give up those things that lead to eternal death. When we give in to our temptation, we return to Your open arms in repentance and seek Your forgiveness.
Some question Your mercy, stating, “Well, that doesn’t seem right that you can sin all you want and go back for forgiveness.” Faith is not a license to sin, and doing whatever we want, then seeking forgiveness, that notion cheapens Your grace. Instead, it is knowing that Your love is greater than all our sins. Denying ourselves means we turn away from the things that would destroy our faith, and we hold on to You. By letting go of worldly desires for Your sake and the gospel’s sake, we can cling to You and are saved, having eternal life.
Lord, forgive us when we follow the ways of the world, and please grant us full pardon for all our sins. Transform our lives so that we turn away from the things of this world that distract us from You, and let us cherish those that give us eternal life. Also, may we take up our cross and share the good news of Your forgiveness, which comes to each person through repentance. Please send Your Holy Spirit to those we meet so they will trust in You. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Faith in God changes you. It is through faith that your sins are forever forgiven, and in response, you live by the law of love and let go of worldly things that lead to eternal destruction. Trust in Him who saves your soul by removing all your sins.