We’ve been discussing death to self and how that looks different depending on the person. I want to discuss another truth in a life of sacrifice: it’s hard to crucify yourself. While you may get one arm on a (figurative) cross, you would be hard-pressed to get all of your limbs on a cross by yourself. This is precisely why you need other people to help you on the journey of dying to your selfish desires. 

The truth is, sometimes we need other people to see things in us that we can’t see ourselves; we all have blind spots. For instance, eight years ago, Hannah and I decided to start making New Year’s resolutions on behalf of each other. In other words, she will pick something that she wants me to work on, and I will pick something that I want her to work on. While it could be a fight waiting to happen, we both decided that it was a great opportunity for us to work on the parts of ourselves we can’t see clearly. 

To my surprise, the first time we did it, Hannah asked me to serve more. As a pastor, I thought of myself as being a servant already, but she wanted me to show it in more practical ways, like doing the dishes after having guests or being aware of the needs of others who were in our home. While I could have, I didn’t receive this as judgment — because as a couple, we decided that we were going to see each other’s blind spots. As we have worked together to crucify our flesh, we have grown closer and have become better people at the same time! 

Friend, I encourage you to let other people speak into your life. It’s impossible to see yourself objectively, so allow those whom you trust and are close with to walk alongside you on your journey of dying to your selfish desires. It won’t be easy, but it will bless you and make you more like Jesus. This is the best possible outcome! Because you are in Him, He has given you everything you need for a life of Godliness; one that will have a huge impact on the world around you! Isn’t that great news?