Deny Yourself

"If any man will come after me, let him deny himself,
and take up his cross daily, and follow me."

Luke 9:23

I've been reading a very extensive biography of Hudson Taylor recently, and have been inspired by a practice his parents incorporated into their family's daily life. At each meal, it was encouraged that one of the children practice denying themselves by choosing to skip something they otherwise would have relished, such as dessert or their favorite side dish. The practice was not forced, but often rewarded by a special treat later on in the evening for the particular child who denied himself. The fruit of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor's wisdom is very evident in the life of Hudson, who had, in consequence, developed the habit of denying himself willingly and joyfully even when he was on his own with no one to oversee his choices. This self-control played a major role in his excellent stewardship of the funds God entrusted into his care, as Hudson was able to look beyond his personal preferences, desires and want of comforts, and carefully handle every penny he earned for the glory of God, choosing rather to lay up "treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal." (Matthew 6:20)

My heart grieves for the rich young ruler whose affections were so tied up in the luxuries of this world that he did not heed to the words of the very Savior of the world, "sell all that thou hast, ...and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: ...come, follow me." (See Luke 18.) The Lord has used these words to speak to many of us since then through His Word, including Dr. Paine who has a wonderful testimony of denying self, and stepping out in faith, exemplifying Romans 8:18:

"For I reckon the sufferings
of this present time
are not worthy to be compared
with the glory
which shall be revealed in us."

God bless you all! Have a victorious day in Christ!