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We Take Up the Cross and Deny Self, August 27
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ
liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the
faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20
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Christ was crucified for fallen man. But to many who call themselves
Christians this event is nothing. In practise they deny the cross of Christ....
They admit that Christ died on the cross, but because there is a crucifixion
for them to experience, they will not receive the lessons that lead to self-
denial and self-sacrifice. They are Christians in name only. The central
point of their faith is not a crucified and risen Saviour, who brings to all
that receive Him the privilege of being sons and daughters of God
Give up the pleasures of sin in exchange for heaven and eternal life.
What are the few days of selfish gratification that contain not one genuine
drop of happiness, to the eternity of bliss that awaits the faithful soul?
Keep not Christ’s love from your soul. Look to the cross of Calvary if
you want a tangible proof of His love. Heaven is looking upon you with
intense interest, to see what you will do. The angels are amazed when
you turn with indifference from the blessings that are proffered you. If
you refuse to respond to the drawing love of Christ, you will finally grow
rebellious and defiant
Paul realized that his sufficiency was not in himself, but in the presence
of the Holy Spirit, whose gracious influence filled his heart, bringing every
thought into subjection to Christ.... In the apostle’s teachings, Christ was
the central figure. “I live,” he declared, “yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.”
Self was hidden; Christ was revealed and exalted
Those who deny self to do others good, and who devote themselves
and all they have to Christ’s service, will realize the happiness which the
selfish man seeks for in vain
[247]
59
The Youth’s Instructor, July 7, 1898
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60
The Youth’s Instructor, March 2, 1893
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61
The Acts of the Apostles, 251
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62
Testimonies for the Church 3:397
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254