Dying to Self

Dying to self is such an important concept in Christianity that Christ, even though He was sinless, modeled it for us. Dying to self can be seen reflected in the idea of detachment. The goal of the Christian is not complete detachment from everything, but only from those things that hinder our attainment of heaven. Detachment is not done because all is not real, not created, or even evil. Detachment is done because there is much on this earth that is not necessary, not helpful, and certainly, not in our control.

As we empty our hearts of extraneous "junk", we should invite God to fill them. The only thing that is sure in this life, besides our journey to the next life, is God. Everything else passes away.

Dying to self is living for Christ. It is giving your life to the only One who *can* control it--God.

Hat tip to Angela Messenger.

When you are forgotten or neglected and you don't hurt with the insult, but your heart is happy...that is dying to self.

When your advice is disregarded, your opinions ridiculed, and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, and take it all in patient, loving silence...that is dying to self.

When you lovingly and patiently bear disorder, irregularity, impunctuality and annoyance and endure it as Jesus endured it...that is dying to self.

When you never care to refer to yourself in conversation or record your own good works, or itch for praise after an accomplishment, when you can truly love to be unknown...that is dying to self.

When you can see your brother or sister prosper and can honestly rejoice with him, and feel no envy even though your needs are greater...that is dying to self.

When you are content with any food, any offering, any raiment, any climate, any society...that is dying to self.

When you can take correction, when you can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly, with no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart...that is dying to self.