Only in Christ is there life after death. What an awesome thought!

But we sometimes forget that, in Christ, there is death before life. 

In order to come to Jesus I had to die to myself. I had to say “no” to me to say “yes” to Him. 

Even the practice of water baptism visually illustrates a death (going down), burial (immersion under water), and resurrection (rising again).

“Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭6:3-4‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Water baptism is not merely a reminder of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection; it is a picture of what is happening in real time to the one being baptized. 

When I came to Christ I chose to die, in order to receive from Him a life I never had. 

In fact, every day I am faced with a choice of life and death. Paul said it like this: “I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless, I live.” 

On another occasion Paul got right to the point when he said: “I die daily.”

Today I want to experience the life of God’s Spirit! In order for His life to be realized I must die to myself. It’s not a matter of physical self-harm; it is a daily decision to say, “Not my will, but Yours be done!”

Father, I choose to die to myself today. Raise me up in new life!
Post Script: 

I sense that someone may read this who is considering actual self-harm. Perhaps the title of the blog captured your attention. 

Jesus knows you. He loves you. He is your Hope. 

I will not trivialize your pain and heartache. But I must tell you that Jesus is greater. 

Will you allow me to pray for you right now?

Father- I stand in faith with my friend today, asking that you will protect them from harm, infuse them with peace, and resurrect them to new life. 

I take authority over every demonic whisper taunting them. In Jesus name I declare life, hope, peace, and joy. May their spiritual eyes be opened to see the significance and meaning of the days ahead of them. 

I pray that they would have an encounter with a caring, faith-filled believer and church family where they can find hope and healing. 

Thank you, Father, for your love. Amen.