What Jesus Did! 'Pick Up Your Cross' — Mark 8:34

Saturday, May 28, 2016

Then Jesus called the people to him. His followers were also there. Then Jesus said, "If any person wants to follow me, he must say 'No' to the things he wants. That person must accept the cross (suffering) that is given to him, and he must follow me.
— Mark 8:34 NLT
Illustration of Mark 8:34 NLT — That person must accept the cross (suffering) that is given to him, and he must follow me.

Key Thought

For Jesus' true followers, the Cross is not a piece of jewelry or even a symbol; it is a lifestyle. It is the willingness to follow Jesus in every way—including the way of the Cross. For us to do that, we must surrender our selfishness and lay down our lives for the needs of others. We must have unflinching loyalty to God no matter the cost. More than just a burden to bear, "our cross to bear" is a total "buy-in" to the life, character, and way of Jesus.

Today's Prayer

O Father, form me more perfectly into the nature, character, and lifestyle of Jesus. In his name I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Philippians 2:5-11
  • John 15:9-13
  • 1 John 4:9-10

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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