Where Is Your Cross?Sample

In the scriptures leading up to our main passage, the familiar exchange between Jesus and Peter reminds us that we don't get to define what obedience looks like for ourselves or others. Peter begins to rebuke Jesus for his gruesome description of his ultimate fate on earth, which includes persecution and, ultimately, the cross. We, humans, don't like suffering or the mention of it in any form. Jesus was so focused on his mission that even his friend, well-meaning Peter, could not sway him.

How many times have we let the opinion of others sway us toward disobedience to God? It is essential to check our motives and ego at the door and get a grip on our worldly way of thinking, knowing our tendency to follow popular opinion. There will be times in our walk with God when He asks us to do hard things, make hard decisions, and take a road less traveled. If we never get challenged to go beyond our wants, desires, and fears, we will never fulfill the complete will of God for our lives.

Matthew 16:23 is a stern reminder of this point: But Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on things of God, but on things of man." (AMP)

Finally, we confront the reason for this statement in verse 24: "If anyone wishes to follow me (as my disciple), he must deny himself (set aside selfish interests), and take up his cross (expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come) and follow me (believing in me, conforming to my example in living, and if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in me.)" (AMP)

The level of commitment required for this type of obedience goes far beyond daily devotionals and quiet time with God. While those things can help us grow spiritually, we must always remember that we must be stretched to achieve true spiritual maturity, which may be uncomfortable or inconvenient. What good does our religious activity do if it only serves our selfish desires and wants? In and of themselves, they may not be wrong, but the goal of faith in Christ is to trust Him fully, whether what we desire happens or not. Trust me, God does care about every detail of our lives, but He also wants us to grow and mature in Him, even if we don't always get what we want.

What about the needs of our neighbors, the poor and needy, or the clerk at the grocery store? I want to challenge you to begin by seeking out small opportunities to take up your cross and follow Christ's command to love one another, caring for the needs of others. He can lead you on the most incredible adventure when you learn to trust and surrender your decisions, plans, and desires to Him.