To Bear My Cross

Father, my Lord Jesus tells us that we are to take up our cross after we have denied ourselves and follow Him. To embrace my cross without giving in to thoughts of self-preservation is more often than not, painful. But when I truly deny myself the luxury of doubts and fears choosing to trust You and You alone, there arises from deep within peace for the journey. To deny my cross and embrace myself and her ways and desires only makes them harder and more destructive, and painful. I believe You, Father, orchestrate the circumstances of my life and by submitting to Your will, with Your help because I can’t do it without You, I will be the recipient of Your peace and strength to bear my cross for Your glory. Lord, may I truly welcome You into all areas of my life, allowing all my fleshly hopes and desires to be crucified and consumed by the fire of Your Holy Spirit, that I may stand completely pure and holy before You.