“For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things” (Philippians 3:18-19).
What is it to be an enemy to the cross? It is to reject the cross and take on a form of religion that mirrors, but without substance, what Christ does through the cross. When Christ bids you follow Him, He bids you come to the cross and die to sin. The old Adam must die. If one is not sold out to Christ, then they continue in the rebellion against God; this is what happened in Genesis three.
Lord, I cannot win the fight the world fights. No one will. Even You had to pay with Your life to redeem those who would surrender to You. Lead me, O Lord, in the way of the cross so that I would never compromise the gift You have given through Your blood. Let me become a theologian of the cross in order that I may have the life You give through grace. Guide me by Your light.
Lord Jesus, You have come so that we may have life and have it abundantly. But it is not just a good life here, but preparation though the cross for eternal life. Lord, You are the Savior and I must be saved. Save me first from myself. Then lead me where I need to go in order that I would humbly walk in the faith You have given me. Guide me, O Lord, according to Your goodness and mercy. Amen.
