Tag Archives: take up your cross

S.A.N.S. Episode 235: I’m Not Who I Was

Posted on September 24, 2022 by expressyourself4him

One of the requirements for a disciple of Jesus is introduced in Matthew 16:24-27. Jesus lays out 3 expectations: deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me. Prior to ascending into heaven, Jesus clarifies his great commission in Acts 1:8. Modern Christian musicians like Brandon Heath use their voices to tell the world about Jesus, spreading the Gospel throughout the earth.

You have heard of my earlier career and former manner of life in the Jewish religion (Judaism), how I persecuted and abused the church of God furiously and extensively, and [with fanatical zeal did my best] to make havoc of it and destroy it. 14 And [you have heard how] I outstripped many of the men of my own generation among the people of my race in [my advancement in study and observance of the laws of] Judaism, so extremely enthusiastic and zealous I was for the traditions of my ancestors. 15 But when He, Who had chosen and set me apart [even] before I was born and had called me by His grace (His undeserved favor and blessing), saw fit and was pleased, Galatians 1:13-15.

Brandon uses the outline provided by the apostle Paul in the passage above to communicate his testimony. The lyrics of I’m Not Who I Was explains how the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit has gradually transformed Brandon’s life. As you listen to this song, may you be encouraged that it’s never too late to change for the better.

by Jay Mankus

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For the Moments I Feel Faint

Posted on June 5, 2021 by expressyourself4him

During a private meeting with his disciples, Jesus reveals 3 non-negotiable expectations, Matthew 16:24. Denying yourself is likely referencing Paul’s words in Colossians 3:1-9. Once you develop the proper mindset, the next command to take up your cross which is different for each individual. The cross that you bear may cause some to feel faint. Yet, this is where your own weakness opens the door for Jesus to become strong.

Three times I called upon the Lord and besought [Him] about this and begged that it might depart from me; 9 But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me! – 2 Corinthians 12:8-9

Depending upon your specific calling, the weight of the cross that you bear varies. Perhaps, this explains Jesus’ final demand, “follow me.” At the end of Luke 9:57-62, Jesus meets candidates to be appointed as one of 72 other disciples. The three that Luke mention each have an excuse to put God’s calling on hold. The point of Jesus’ 3 non-negotiable expectations is so that his followers finish what they start.

So for the sake of Christ, I am well pleased and take pleasure in infirmities, insults, hardships, persecutions, perplexities and distresses; for when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful [e]in divine strength), 2 Corinthians 12:10.

Taking up the cross of Christ isn’t easy. This life long expedition may incite fear, bring trouble and inflict your life with pain. Reliant K’s song For the Moments that I Feel Faint talks about this spiritual journey. The lyrics of this song urges listener’s to never underestimate the hope of Jesus. Just as the apostle Paul struggled with some sort of physical or spiritual condition, lean on God’s grace so that you will be filled with supernatural strength as you carry your cross.

by Jay Mankus

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