Then [Jesus] said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23; NLT).
What is this cross
Of which you speak, Lord Jesus?
What is this burden
I must bear through life?
It’s everything you suffer
For my sake, child;
It’s every kind of sickness, grief,
And strife.
What makes this cross
So critical, Lord Jesus?
What makes this burden count
Right up to death?
It’s facing all your suffering
With faith, child,
Whilst showing love to all
Till your last breath.
References
Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows (John 16:33; NLT).
I was given a thorn in my flesh […] Three times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:7-9; NLT).
In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind (2 Corinthians 6:4; NLT).
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them (Romans 12.9; NLT).
You have heard the law that say, ‘Love your neighbour’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! (Matthew 5:43-4; NLT).
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34; NIV).