Taking Less of Yourself and More of Jesus: A New Year's Resolution That Matters
At the dawn of each new year, many of us feel compelled to approach life with greater seriousness - from spiritual disciplines to personal relationships. Yet ironically, the one thing we consistently take too seriously is ourselves.
Taking ourselves too seriously leads to an unexpected form of slavery:
- We become entitled, unable to feel genuine gratitude
- We grow stingy, fearing scarcity
- We turn tribal, refusing to consider other perspectives
- We harbor resentment, withholding grace
- We overwork, unable to rest
- We wallow in shame, rejecting forgiveness
This self-importance isn't new. Since Eve believed she could become like God by eating forbidden fruit, humans have struggled with taking themselves too seriously. Only Jesus, who took our sin seriously while surrendering his own dignity, shows us a different way.
The path to freedom lies in taking Jesus more seriously while taking ourselves less seriously. When we do this:
- Gratitude flows naturally, recognizing every gift comes from God
- Generosity increases, trusting in God's provision
- Empathy grows, allowing patience in disagreements
- Forgiveness comes easier, knowing God is the ultimate judge
- Rest becomes possible, trusting God's control
- Freedom from shame emerges, accepting Christ's friendship
Jesus offers an invitation to those weary from self-importance:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matt. 11:28–30, NIV)
The truly mature aren't consumed with their image or weighed down by self-importance. They're lighthearted, humble, and kind. By taking Jesus more seriously, we're freed to take ourselves less seriously - finding the rest our souls desperately need.
Book cover: Growing Together
Whether seeking spiritual mentorship or hoping to guide others, "Growing Together: Taking Mentoring Beyond Small Talk and Prayer Requests" by Melissa Kruger offers valuable lessons for fostering spiritual growth in both mentees and mentors.
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