Willing to Die to Self

To some surrounding the cross, it seemed clear that Jesus did not need to die. If He really was the Son of God and had the power to perform miracles, surely He could have saved Himself.

Ironically, these observers identified one thing that made Jesus so different. They expected Him to be self-centered. To do what was best for Himself. To focus on His personal interests.

They did not realize that His life was not a demonstration of pleasures and power. He had not conducted a campaign to amass wealth or fame. He lived to serve the Father and deny Himself. To meet the needs of others.

In fact, He taught that the only way a grain of wheat could produce much grain was to fall into the ground and die. He became that grain, dying so that much more power could be unleashed (John 12:24-25).

Jesus did have the power to save Himself! But salvation was possible because He died on the cross. Because of His death, we can be reconciled to God, forgiven of our sins, and live with Him forever! He came to die for us, so we can have victory and eternal life!

The world expects us to be self-centered. But the Bible reminds us that God wants us to live lives of sacrifice, service, and obedience to Him. To be like Jesus.

In your life, remember that real joy, victory, and success come from sacrificial service. Dying to self. Living for God.