In Luke 9:23, it reads, “And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” I know there are some people who feel like in the midst of denying themselves they have simply begun to lie to themselves. I know this to be true because that is something that I have dealt with. There was a point in my walk where I simply wanted to give up hope. I thought that if this is not burned out of me by now maybe it is something that is meant to be apart of me. I had such a desire to live righteously and it seemed like everyday I was forced to deny or oppose ungodly thoughts. This on-going opposition in my thought life caused a lot of personal duress. I began to feel that my whole Christian walk was a sham. However, I did not understand that my denial had stopped my opponent from scoring.
Sometimes it can be discouraging to feel like you are denying the same thing over and over again but it is not going away. It can feel as if you are living a lie. Take some time to look up at the scoreboard, the opposition is not winning. In Psalm 41:11, David said it like this, “By this I know that thou favors me, because mine enemy does not triumph over me.” Be encouraged, you striving for righteousness is not in vain. You may have to deny the same opponent daily but your enemy has not triumphed. If you stay in the game you will become so conditioned that you will be able to stop the opposition from even getting the ball in motion. You are not living a lie! You are living in denial of all things that are not God! You are victorious! Stay on the Path!
About the Author:Path contributing writer Calvin Walker has been writing editorial content for Path MEGAzine since 2007. Calvin’s ability to break down the word of God with thought provoking analogies and real life analysis makes an impact on Christians seeking a closer walk with God. An accomplished author, Walker released his debut book titled “The Gallery” early 2010. Click here to read excerpts and purchase Walkers’ inspirational novel. Email calvinwalkerauthor@yahoo.com
