This verse has two different meanings, one interpretation focuses on suffering as a “witness” to the Lord. The other focuses on the suffering that we face as we “die to ourselves.” Sometimes, when we ask God to take our cross from us, He will and sometimes He will allow us to carry our cross all the way to Calvery. Jesus, prayed to the Father in the garden of Gethsemane just before he was arrested, "to let His cross of sacrifice pass from Him" Yet Jesus was not spared. because God's plan was for Him to suffer in hope His blessings and suffering will change our hearts and save us. Paul carried a “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7). The cross that Paul carried might have been some sort of sickness or a speech impediment, God did not spare him. But, the cross we carry Jesus carries with us, to help ease the burdens.
Good morning Holy Spirit welcome into our hearts and minds. Guide us through this day and order our steps in Your will. Lord, we surrender our freedom, our desires and our flesh to You. Father, let Your Word be a lamp to our feet and the light to our path. You are so worthy of our praise and worship; You are our beginning and our end, You are able to keep us from falling and present us to the Father without fault. Lord, we hear Your Words “Take up our cross and follow me,” so help us pack the things of the Spirit so we will be submissive and follow You. Father, we commit to You all our problems and burdens, so we do not grow weary under the weight of our cross. Lord, help us deny ourselves, the self we put on for others or the self-centered self that wants it all for ourselves? So, Father, baptize us in the Spirit so we will be able to obey Your will. Lord, we need Your grace and mercy to be able to deal with our day to day struggles. Lord, we remember that You empowered Your disciples and others who decided to follow You, and we believe that You will do likewise for us. In Jesus name Amen
Inspired by Lucille Pianese
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