What Jesus Said About Total Surrender and Death to SelfShembull

The Cross Must Go Deeper in Our Lives (1)

Quite simply, dying to self means that we should be able to say, "Father, let Your will be done" in every situation. It demands brokenness–it requires that I die to self. I must allow the self to be crucified. Dying to self is: Let your will be done in everything in my life. In the life of faithful disciples, all that matters is God's will, glory, Kingdom, redemption, and salvation of sinners.

The dominant spiritual climate in many congregations and the lives of many Christians, is one in which the cross is not preached and not welcome. Such a gospel will not make an impact on the world. The purpose of the cross is to bring death to the old sinful nature (self) so that there will be room for the resurrection power of Jesus Christ in the lives of believers.

The cross has become a favorable symbol, and we are expected to say nice things about it, but in practice, this does not lead to the death of self. The Biblical meaning of the cross differs greatly from hanging a little gold cross around your neck. The reason for the lack of power in the lives of many Christians today is that the cross has not penetrated deep enough into their lives. As the cross penetrates deeper into our lives, we are more useful to be co-workers in God's Kingdom. The cross sets us free from all burdens so that we can serve God better.

Obedience: How deep is the cross going in your life? Ask the Holy Spirit to apply the cross deeper in your own life. Be specific.