Recent visits to the grocery stores have made me keenly aware of the extents to which people will go, in order to preserve their lives. The empty shelves reflect the human fear of not having the necessities of life. Self preservation is one of the most natural instincts we possess. It is this instinct that causes us to be reluctant to sacrifice ourselves. Yet, this is what the Lord requires of us.
Jesus said, “For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it” Matthew 16:25. Jesus wants us to give up our lives in order to possess His life. This requires us to completely surrender ourselves to His authority.
Paul told the church in Rome, “Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship” Romans 12:1 AMP.
Some would argue that faith in Christ alone saves us. That is correct. However, true evidence that one has faith in Christ is that his or her life is governed by Christ through the Holy Spirit. “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun” 2 Corinthians 5:17. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples” John 8:31.
In a time where many will accept Christ as their Savior but very few will accept his lordship, we must realize Jesus desires each and everyone of us to lay down our lives for his. He wants us to let go of things and ideas that keep us from obeying Him. Christ wants to live in us and through us. He wants to be our Lord and Savior.
Have you given Christ your life? If so, how has your life changed?
Thank you for visiting Clarion Call Ministries where our goal is to share the clear message of the gospel of Jesus Christ with you in every post. Be sure to subscribe to receive notifications of new posts.