Cross-bearing is closely related to self-denial, and yet a distinction between them may be noted. Self-denial relates more particularly to passive obedience and endurance for the Lord's sake; cross-bearing has to do more especially with activities in the Lord's service, which we find to be contrary to our natural inclinations. Faithfulness in self-denial means courage and zeal; cross-bearing means victory, overcoming. Our self-denials may be victories in our own hearts, of which others may know nothing, and of which they should know nothing, if we desire to have the fullness of the Lord's blessing. Our cross-bearing, however, may be seen, to some extent at least, by those who are in close contact with us, and especially by those who are walking in the same "narrow way".
Self-denial in the Christian sense is not simply abstinence from our rights, but abstinence from our rights for the Lord's sake. To bear the cross implies subjection of self to the Lord's will in service, from faith, hope, love and obedience in all life's affairs, especially amid untoward circumstances. Only those who practice such self-denial and cross-bearing are Christ's true followers, and as such shall at the end of their course be acknowledged by the Lord for a share in Christ's glorious Kingdom.
Gen. 22:1-12; 2 Sam. 24:24; Matt. 8:19-22; 10:37-39; 13:44-46; 19:12, 21; Luke 5:11, 27, 28; 14:33; 18:27-30; 21:2-4; Acts 20:22-24; Rom. 6:1-11; 14:1-22; 15:1-5; 1 Cor. 8:13; 9:12, 15, 18, 19, 23-27; 10:24; Phil. 3:7-9; Titus 2:12; 1 Pet. 2:11, 16; 4:1, 2.
