GRASPING THE CROSS

Jesus said, “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.”  (Matthew 16:25)

Ever feel you’re losing your grip on life? Congratulations! Let go of your own grip. Grasp the cross. You are loved, cherished and valued. The Lord won’t ever let go of you. Give your life over to His control. He’ll take it and give you back a more exciting, fulfilling life than you’ve ever known. Give your time to Him and He’ll give you back eternity. Give yourself to people in need and He’ll give you a heart overflowing with love. Give your money over to His management and He’ll give back more than you need. 

-- Lloyd J. Ogilvie in “If God Cares, Why Do I Still Have Problems?”

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REACT LIKE A CHRISTIAN

In my experience, it is much easier to act like a Christian than it is to react like one. Most of us are good actors -- we can play the part. But our reactions reveal who we really are. And maybe that is why Jesus focused so much of His teaching on reconditioning reflexes.

Pray for those who persecute you.
Love your enemies.
Bless those who curse you.
If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.
If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.

What is the natural reaction when someone slaps you? You feel like slapping him back, right? But supernatural reaction is both counterintuitive and counterreactive. Jesus taught us to turn the other cheek. Think of it as a spiritual aikido. We absorb the sinful energy of others and convert it into a righteous response. So persecution becomes a catalyst for prayer. Hatred inspires love. And we convert curses into blessings.

Is there anybody in your life who brings out the worst in you? When you're around her, you react in ways you later regret. Or maybe it's someone who gets on your nerves or under your skin. Here's my advice: pray for them! Nothing reconditions our spiritual reflexes like prayer. Start praying for the difficult people in your life, and it will change the way you feel about them.

-- Mark Batterson in Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God


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