Some believers in Christ have a checklist of “to dos” that they check off on a daily basis which they believe satisfies their duty as followers of Jesus Christ.
I would like to encourage us that Jesus wants more from His followers than checking off a list. While some Christian practices such as going to Church, read my Bible, praying are very important in our Christian walk, Jesus wants a close relationship with each one of His followers.
Jesus clarifies things for us In Luke 9:23-27 (AMP)
“And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple],
He must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and
Take up his cross daily [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and
Follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and,
if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me].
For whoever wishes to save his life [in this world] will [eventually] lose it [through death], but whoever loses his life [in this world] for My sake, he is the one who will save it [from the consequences of sin and separation from God].
For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world [wealth, fame, success],and loses or forfeits himself?
For whoever is ashamed [here and now] of Me and My words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His glory and the glory of the [heavenly] Father and of the holy angels. But I tell you truthfully, there are some among those standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.”
I submit to you that while taking up our cross to follow Jesus may not be easy, it could be downright difficult. Jesus also encouraged His follower that the world will be harsh for us a times as it was for Him. He promised to be with us through it all. The Holy Spirit is also our help, and our comforter when things get hard in our cross bearing life.
LET US PRAY
Merciful God, thank You for sustaining us as we deny ourselves and bear our crosses to follow Jesus. Blessed Holy Spirit, we need you to help us in our journey of following Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Equip us along our journey so that our lives will glorify Your Holy name. Fight our battles Lord. We have victory in Jesus Christ! In Jesus’ mighty name I pray. Amen 
Have a blessed day 
