10
Aug '21
Five Non-Negotiables – Death to Self
10
Aug '21
Introduction: Even after having our sins forgiven by the blood of Jesus, we realize there is still a problem with the things we do, and do not do. It is called the flesh. Some refer to it as the old man or simply self. That prompts this question: Does Jesus save us just to take us to heaven? Or does He save us to give us a little heaven on earth? But what is the secret to obtaining this deeper life in Christ? One part of it involves this principle….death to self. Although it is painful, it is necessary.
1. What do we mean by DEATH to SELF?
“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.”
(Luke 9:23,24)
Jesus was speaking to His disciples when Luke recorded these words. The cross is an instrument meant to be used to put to death (slow but fully) a person. In order to be a consistent follower of Jesus Christ, one must go through the experience of dying to his or her self. Actually, our Lord has made provisions for this process which is described in more detail by the apostle Paul in the epistles.
2. WHY do we need to DIE to SELF?
“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” (Gal 5:16,17)
Because Self gets in the way of God’s will for us. It no longer becomes His Will but rather our will that we obey. This becomes a hindrance to being used by the Lord.
3. How do we DIE to SELF?
“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” (Gal 5:24)
Dying to self does not depend upon human ingenuity or human ability, but rather human totality. In other words, participation and cooperation is essential. We embrace God’s Word. We enact God’s Will. And then we experience God’s Way.
Conclusion: Living in a culture that is all about SELF, SELF, SELF makes this non-negotiable of DYING to SELF challenging. Yet, in other to live a life that pleases the Lord, this must be a vital part. Where are you in this daily process?
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese