(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Matthew 10:38-39 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.
Matthew 10 concludes with Jesus sharing a theme that was common throughout His ministry: those who follow Me will need to give up everything they think is important and instead commit to what matters most. Throughout His ministry, some heard this teaching and walked away. They wanted to continue to live and enjoy the things they thought were important. But others were all in, accepting Jesus’ invitation to begin to see God, others, the world, and even themselves in a completely different light. Oddly, their lives didn’t become any easier to live – it was complete opposite! But by committing to following Christ, they came to experience love, joy, peace, and contentment in profound ways.
Today, Jesus’ invitation continues to be offered to all. We each must choose whether we are truly willing to give up everything we think is important and begin to see God, others, the world, and even ourselves in a different light.
READING & PRAYERS:
MATTHEW 10:32-42 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Is there anything you are unwilling to give up (or struggle to give up) in order to be more deeply rooted in Christ?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Take the opportunity to write down how you have spent your time each day over the previous week. Is there anything listed you’re holding onto which God may be inviting you to let go of?
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, today I recognize that my unwillingness to let go of certain things ultimately does violence to my heart and soul. But following you brings healing, joy, and contentment to my heart and soul. May this truth stick with me today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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