The Loser’s Plan
Die to Self – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Mark 8:31-38

Key Verse: Mark 8:35

For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it.

As we continue from yesterday’s devotional thoughts, I want to turn to the practical matters of the cross.  Jesus commands us to take up our cross and follow Him.  What will that look like in your day today?  What is the nitty gritty of the biggest loser’s plan in our spiritual journey?

            It will start with our thought life.  First, we humanly have constant thoughts of self-preservation.  Jesus challenges those thoughts and wants us to value a life in and for Him as more important than physical life itself.  Thousands have literally died for their faith in Jesus down through the ages.  Are you there yet?

            Once we see life in and for Jesus as more important than physical life, then we face the daily temptations of this physical life differently.  If I am willing to die for my faith, I certainly will be willing to say no to a physical craving that would dishonor God.  The loser’s plan for each day is to not “eat” the junk food of this world, but rather eat the wholesome “food” of God’s kingdom.

            If I am willing to die for God’s kingdom, then the daily opportunity to serve people in Jesus’ name is a no brainer.  Jesus told us that He didn’t come to be served, but to serve.  How can we do anything less?

Father, I willingly offer you my life—my physical life.  If you choose a path of personal sacrifice for me, I will go!  In Jesus’ name, amen.