The Paradox of Discipleship
“For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will find it.” - Matthew 16:24-26
We are hardwired for self-preservation. It’s our default setting. The world says, “Secure your life. Protect your dreams. Chase your happiness.” Jesus says, “Lose it.”
But here’s the thing—He’s not calling you to self-destruction. He’s calling you to self-abandonment. There’s a difference. You’re not losing your life into the void; you’re losing it into His hands.
When Jesus says, “Whoever loses his life because of me will find it,” He’s not giving you religious masochism. He’s offering you real life. Not the shallow, self-indulgent version, but the abundant, soul-deep life only He gives.
Here’s the deal: you can gain the whole world—success, comfort, security—but it’s a rigged game. It costs you your soul. The job promotion, the dream house, the perfect vacation—they can’t resurrect your dead heart. Only Jesus can.
Reflection Questions:
Today, take a tangible step of self-denial for the sake of Christ. It could be sacrificially serving someone, giving generously, or sharing your faith despite fear.
Prayer:
Jesus, the world offers comfort, but You offer life. Give me the courage to let go of my lesser loves, so I can cling fully to You. Let me find the life only You give. Amen.
We are hardwired for self-preservation. It’s our default setting. The world says, “Secure your life. Protect your dreams. Chase your happiness.” Jesus says, “Lose it.”
But here’s the thing—He’s not calling you to self-destruction. He’s calling you to self-abandonment. There’s a difference. You’re not losing your life into the void; you’re losing it into His hands.
When Jesus says, “Whoever loses his life because of me will find it,” He’s not giving you religious masochism. He’s offering you real life. Not the shallow, self-indulgent version, but the abundant, soul-deep life only He gives.
Here’s the deal: you can gain the whole world—success, comfort, security—but it’s a rigged game. It costs you your soul. The job promotion, the dream house, the perfect vacation—they can’t resurrect your dead heart. Only Jesus can.
Reflection Questions:
- Where are you still clinging to worldly security?
- What would it look like to actively “lose your life” for Jesus in your current context?
Today, take a tangible step of self-denial for the sake of Christ. It could be sacrificially serving someone, giving generously, or sharing your faith despite fear.
Prayer:
Jesus, the world offers comfort, but You offer life. Give me the courage to let go of my lesser loves, so I can cling fully to You. Let me find the life only You give. Amen.
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