This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 1 John 3:16, NIV

As Christians, we are called to follow the example Jesus set for us during His time here on earth. Fortunately, for most of us, following His example has not required us to literally sacrifice our lives for others. Instead, it typically looks more like sacrificing our time and desires to meet the needs of others. Even though this doesn’t require physical suffering, it’s not always easy. It requires us to put aside our feelings and plans and allow God to change our hearts. We have to want what He wants instead of what we want!

But even though it’s not easy at times, following God’s plans for our lives is the most rewarding way to live. It may seem counterintuitive, but dying to ourselves actually rejuvenates us and sets us free. Today, I encourage you to be willing to sacrifice your time and energy to meet the needs of those that God has placed in your life!

Dear loving Father, thank you for giving us the opportunity to be living examples of Jesus to our students. Help us dedicate our lives to being true disciples of Christ. Help us die to ourselves daily so that we can live in the freedom of Jesus. Amen!

Copyright Laurie Dahle.

Laurie is a member and a physical therapist who works in a Missouri public school district. She also writes her own daily devotionals. If you are interested in receiving them, you may contact her at faithexercisediet@gmail.com.