Denying Self

Religion has misunderstood what Jesus meant when He said that if anyone is desiring of following me, let him and he must deny himself (Mark 8:34). Religion has interpreted this to mean that to be a disciple one must give up things. I am afraid many of the Lord's churches have attested to this as well. It is an overreaction to the world's view of life, which is about having things and focusing on self. Jesus didn't say that one must give up possessions if he wants to follow me, though at times it may be necessary to give up possessions. He said one must deny self. Many have used this either to control people or beat them over the head with it. Some say you have forfeited the privilege to be a follower of Jesus if you go to college or pursue a job career, or have a hobby. None of this is true.

What does it mean to deny or repudiate self? It means to think of others and what is best for them and not what is best for you. It means you can't be a disciple if you are stuck on yourself. If everything has to be about you, you will never become a follower of Jesus. Jesus can't use anyone with a large ego.

To be a disicple you must begin to start thinking about yourself less. It is a journey; but the pathway is repudiating self. You will fail at times, but now is the time to take the first step. Start right now by denying self.