If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
Matthew 16:24
What does it mean to follow Christ? Some people think they follow Christ by modeling his example or his spirit or attitude. Some follow Christ only to gain faith or a good character. Others perhaps even a name for themselves. But why do you follow Christ? Jesus says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross [daily], and follow me.” If you’re to follow Jesus, it means daily picking up a cross and tracing Christ’s steps down the long, hard road to Calvary. Not only must we bear the cross, but do it in a manner that honors Jesus. After all, Jesus did not cringe, complain or resent the weight of the cross he bore. John 19 says, “And he, bearing his cross, went forth.” We have to do the same. So today, pick up your cross and go forth. Following Jesus up that road to Calvary.
Spiritual growth is a slow process of change from the inside out. You may want to speed up the transformation with a quick fix, but the change won’t be lasting. Be patient, keep persevering and trust the steady work of your Savior.
