We don’t always realize how much “self” can get in the way of what God wants to do in and through us. We think it’s them, or that, or some external thing, but really, so often the problems lie within us! It’s true, isn’t it, our flesh fights against the Spirit, and anything that springs from self, no matter how small, keeps us from living a full, surrendered life before God (Galatians 5:17, NKJV).
Self-energy, self-complacency in life, self-pity during trials, and self-defense when we feel wronged can seem like no big deal to us, but they are not harmless. They actually are doing us much harm! Those self-centered feelings spring from the flesh and cloud our hearts, hindering our prayers and blocking spiritual fruit. Jesus calls us to a different way: “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23, NKJV).
That daily cross means death to self in every area. That includes but is not limited to death to our ambitions, our reputation, our plans, and even our desire to protect ourselves from pain. Self-pity keeps us looking inward, preventing us from seeing the needs of others. Self-seeking makes us restless and dissatisfied, as we chase comfort or affirmation rather than seeking the kingdom of God first. Worry and fear often expose where we are holding on to control instead of trusting the Lord. (I hate worry and anxiety.) Resentment and defensiveness reveal where we have forgotten the mercy we ourselves have received.
Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20, NKJV). The cross has set us free. When we lay down every trace of self-life, we receive the power and freedom that come from yielding fully to Him. It is then that our cups are overflowing, our service becomes fruitful, and our lives bring glory to God.
I love the truth that teaches us “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16, NKJV). This is the way! It’s so much better than “self”. We do not conquer self by our willpower but by surrendering to Jesus, asking Him to search us, purify us, and teach us to walk in His ways each day.
If you find yourself stuck in fear or bitterness today, and if worry and fears flood your heart, pause and take it to the Lord. Confess the self-life that clings to your heart and lay it down at the foot of the cross. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit, to teach you to trust Him in this very area, and to help you walk in the freedom of obedience. As we learn to let go of self, we discover the joy of living for Him and serving others with a clean heart.
Living surrendered is not easy. But what is easy in a sin-soaked world? I’ll tell you what, coming to Jesus. That’s easy!
He brings immediate rest to our souls. True rest.
Beware of “self” in all its manifestations. Die to yourself and live to Christ!
