Today’s Scripture

“For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.”
— MARK 8:35 (NIV)

The Paradox That Sets You Free

What You Lose:

• Temporary comforts
• Empty pursuits
• The illusion of control

What You Gain:

• Eternal purpose (Colossians 3:2)
• Abundant life now (John 10:10)
• Soul-deep satisfaction (Psalm 107:9)

Two Ways to Live

1️⃣ Self-Preservation Mode

• Clutch your dreams tightly
• Risk watching them crumble

2️⃣ Gospel-Surrender Mode

• Hold everything with open hands
• Receive back eternal treasures

Prayer of Abandonment

Lord Jesus,
You traded heaven’s glory for a cross—how can I cling to my petty comforts?

• Expose my secret bargains where I try to follow You and keep control
• Where I’m playing it safe, make me dangerously faithful
• Turn my ‘sacrifices’ into joy-filled worship

I surrender:
📱 My need for approval
💵 My financial security blanket
📝 My five-year plan

Take it all—You’re worth it.

Amen.

🔥 Surrender Challenge:

1. Write down one thing you’ve been trying to “save”—now symbolically release it (tear up the paper, kneel in prayer, etc.)
2. Ask someone: “What’s God inviting you to trust Him with completely?”

✝️ “To live is Christ, to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)