Mark 8:35

Scripture: 

Mark 8:35  “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” (NASB) 

Observation:

I lost a little piece of myself recently, and it was painful. I had to have one of my molars removed due to the decay between the crown and what was left of my tooth. From the outside, you couldn't tell, but deep within the decay was eating my tooth away. Today's verse says that anyone wishing to save his life must lose it, and whoever loses his life for Christ’s sake will save it. I realize it was only my tooth, but the pain was terrible. The weird part was the crown made the tooth look as if it was just fine. Only by an x-ray were we able to see how bad it was. Sometimes in life, we seem to be okay on the outside

Everything looks good, but upon examining deep within ourselves, we find that we really don't want to lose part of ourselves. However, that's exactly what Christ is asking of us...to die to self so that He may live in and through us. When was the last time we did a thorough examination of our spiritual walk with Christ? It may seem to be fine on the outside, but what's going on behind that good-looking exterior? It's time for some x-rays on ourselves, because the decay of this world can eat us away.  

Application:

1) Think about what you just read.

2) Ask the Holy Spirit for clarity and insight.

3) Share this with someone who would benefit from reading it.

4) Make sure others see Jesus in YOU today.

TOM SEMBER has been involved in ministering to men for over 20 years. He is an ordained minister with the AG in the NY Ministry Network. Tom lives with his wife, Carolyn, and children in New York. You can connect with Tom on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.