Take Up Your Cross Daily

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me." -Jeremiah 29:11-13


       As I was spending time in Gods Word last night, I became aware of the lack of blind faith I have in Him. I know that my God has a plan for me, but it's not easy for me to give up control of my life. I love my planner. I put all of my homework assignments in it, I write down every birthday I can think of in it and I write down when campus is closed (like I wouldn't just know when I don't have to work or go to class). I have my class schedule for the summer, fall 2010 and spring 2011 figured out. I know what's going on in my life, at least until God steps in.
       I realized that I need to let go of my plans for my life because it really isn't my life, it's Gods. Giving this life up to God is a daunting task, but Jesus died for us. He did not die because of us or in spite of us. He died for us. How can we repay that debt? Well, we really can't. We can; however, abandon our old selves and live as Jesus died: full of love. Jesus loved us and this sinful world, we must likewise love Him and His sinless purity.
       As a poor, shy, cowardly college student, I'm at a loss for what God could use me. I know though, that He has a glorious plan for me. I know that tomorrow He will have a way for me to further His kingdom and bring glory to His name. I know that the day after that, He will have another way for me to further His kingdom and bring glory to His name. It's up to me recognize His will and to blindly follow Him. In order to do that, I must abandon my sinful ways and be in constant counsel with Him. My heart and my mind must be constantly focused on Him, not that cute boy in the Student U or that test in two days. God will take care of everything for us if we give up everything for Him. It's important to remember that if we stumble, we haven't ruined God's plan. God wants us to be a part of His plan, but He doesn't need us to be a part of His plan. Do you want to be a part of Gods plan?

"If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it." -Luke 9:23,24