Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation. Today's devotion was written by Shayla Bullock.

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me (Luke 9:23 NIV).

What do you want to be when you grow up? This is a question most children have heard. I remember years ago when my oldest son was four years old, he declared he wanted to be a power ranger and a preacher. I’m not sure how he planned to merge these two careers, but I was on board! They both were honorable callings. Think back to the freedom of childhood, the ability to dream about being whatever you wanted to be, no career was too big or too small. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Now as a child of God, whom do you want to be? What mission or calling would you like to pursue? If you are like me, that’s not an easy question to answer. It can be overwhelming and intimidating! However, I find comfort and guidance in Luke 9:23, “Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” For me, this scripture clarifies my purpose. Jesus' instructions were simple and concise. I may not always have a clear big calling or mission, but every day I need to deny myself, take up my cross, and follow him. This provides direction!

Today your cross or mission may be simply reaching out to a friend to offer an encouraging word; extending great patience to your child; or allowing your light to continue to shine at work. Tomorrow your cross or calling could involve continuing to extend love in a broken marriage or praying fervently for lost souls. According to this scripture, every day is a new day to pursue our calling or mission.

In what ways, today, is God calling you to deny yourself and take up your cross?

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OhSoFree Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com/