Me, Myself, and I

Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Luke 9:23 NKJV

We naturally and subconsciously put our selves before others. In today's society the world tries to tell us that the way to achieve happiness is through boosting self esteem, personal affirmations, and focusing on self. But that is an empty philosophy that only leads to momentary happiness. As Christians we are encouraged to put others before ourselves and to not focus on earthly things, but to be focused on what we can do to further the kingdom of Jesus Christ. These are the requirements of discipleship: that we die to our selves, take up our crosses, and follow Him. The taking up of the cross involves the total submission of your will to God. Through this only will you experience true joy in your Christian walk. Remember, joy is all about priority - Jesus, Others, and then Yourself.