Bible Reading: Mark 8:34-37

“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37)

There is only one life in this world that will bring us the satisfaction and peace that we desire. That life is the life of the cross and life for the gospel. 

Jesus said anyone who wanted to follow Him must deny themselves, take up their cross and follow Him. This means to leave behind old sinful ways of sin and replace them with simple obedience to Christ and His ways. This life is not easy; it is full of strive and struggle. Many times we fall, but God is faithful in sustaining us and returning us into His path. 

A life of obedience to Christ is the only life that is worth living. If we were to pursue our own desires, passions, dreams, we would gain many good things in this world. However, the one thing we cannot do is save our lives. The time in the timer will soon run out, and there will be nothing we could do to save all the riches we have obtained. 

On the contrary, Jesus said, “whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.” Those who are willing to give up living selfishly and turn to the way of obedience will save their life and enter into abounding peace and joy for eternity in Christ. Note to whom this address is given. Whoever desires to give up their lives in obedience to the gospel will save it. Also, note the certainty. It is not that he might save his life, but he will save his life. For those who truly seek, they will find. Jeremiah 29:13 says, “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”

Have we given our lives to Christ? Have we decided to live in obedience to Him? Or maybe, we have fallen out of line and have slipped back into our sinful ways and desires. 

Our God is a faithful God. 1 John 1:9 says, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”. Have you asked for forgiveness? Have you surrendered your life into the forgiving blood of Christ that purifies all sin? 

The love of God is something we will never be able to comprehend in its full. Why would God love us so much to offer us another chance to live for Him? Why would He offer us another go at living in the way of the cross? 

Submit and surrender yourself to Him today. 

Lord, please forgive me when I stray from your truth. My heart is so deceitful, and it loves the ways of the world. Please forgive me. I want to deny myself, take up your cross, and follow you. I am a sinner, but I want to trust in Your love and sacrifice found in the blood of Christ. What else is there to gain in this life than to be with You and to live in obedience to You? You are my desire Lord, please accept me and use my life for the sake of your gospel. Thank You, God. Praise be to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

Hans Sangtoki (18) is the coordinator of RE Generation Z. He has a passion for serving his generation and sharing hope in Christ. He also has an interest in classical music and dreams of conducting an orchestra one day.

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