As a Christian, one of the highest goals you may have is to strive to be more like Christ in every area of your life. However, this transformation requires self-reflection, introspection, and change. The Biblical perspective of "self" differs from what the world's wisdom preaches. Dying to self is the supreme challenge you will face as you seek to make Christ-honoring and Biblical changes in your life. Today, we will explore why dying to self is essential, how we can do it, and the benefits of it.
To understand why dying to self is essential, we must understand what it means. Dying to self is the process of surrendering or giving up our desires, ambitions, selfishness, and will to follow Christ. It is putting Christ first and acknowledging that our self-will and ways are corrupt and inadequate. In Luke 9:23-24, Christ said, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it." Thus, we must die to ourselves to follow Christ fully.
Dying to self is not easy. It means giving up old habits, attitudes, and beliefs that keep us from becoming Christlike. However, we can do it by following some practical steps. First, we need to acknowledge our sinfulness and unworthiness before the Lord. Second, we need to submit our will to the Lord's will and let the Holy Spirit transform us by the renewal of our minds (Romans 12:2). Third, we need to read and meditate on the Word of God and pray without ceasing to discern the Lord's will in all areas of our lives.
The benefits of dying to self are numerous and cannot be overstated. First, we experience freedom from the tyranny of self-centeredness, pride, and egoism. Second, we cultivate humility and teachability, which make us receptive to God's wisdom and guidance. Third, our relationships with others improve as we love and serve them selflessly. Finally, we experience a more intimate and fulfilling relationship with Christ that empowers us to do His will and glorify Him in all we do.
Conclusion:
Dying to self is your supreme challenge in making Christ-honoring and Biblical changes in your life. It is an ongoing process that requires daily surrender, obedience, and dependence on the Lord. However, the rewards of dying to self are immeasurable, as we become more like Christ, experience freedom, cultivate humility, improve our relationships, and glorify God in all we do.
May the Holy Spirit empower you to die to yourself and live for Christ today and always.
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