Going All In

In a world that constantly tells us to put ourselves first, there's a countercultural message that challenges this notion: deny yourself. This isn't a call to misery or self-deprecation, but rather an invitation to a fuller, more abundant life. It's about letting go of our old ways and embracing a new path – one that leads to true fulfillment.

The concept of "going all in" is familiar to many of us. We've experienced it in sports, hobbies, or career pursuits. It's about giving our all, not backing down when things get tough, and committing fully to a cause. But what does it mean to go "all in" for our faith?

Jesus offers us a profound insight in John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." This abundant life Jesus speaks of isn't about accumulating wealth or achieving worldly success. It's about living in alignment with God's purpose for us, guided by the Holy Spirit.

To embark on this journey of abundance, we must first heed Jesus' words in Matthew 16:24: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." This three-step command begins with self-denial – a concept that seems counterintuitive in our self-focused culture. But what does it truly mean to deny ourselves?

The process begins with introspection – a deep, honest look within ourselves. King David, a man after God's own heart, understood this well. In Psalm 139:23-24, he prays, "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!"

This prayer invites God into our self-examination. It's not just about asking ourselves tough questions like "Where is my life heading?" or "What are my priorities?" It's about allowing God to reveal the truth about our inner selves. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in this process, as Jesus promises in John 16:13: "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth."

But introspection alone isn't enough. Once we've identified areas in our lives that need change, we must be willing to let them go. This is where the concept of "living with open hands" comes into play. Imagine clenching your fists tightly, then slowly opening them. This physical act represents the spiritual process of releasing our grip on things we've held onto for too long.

The story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-22 illustrates this challenge perfectly. When Jesus told him to sell everything he had and give to the poor, the man went away sad, unable to let go of his possessions. What are we clutching tightly that's preventing us from fully following Jesus? It might be material possessions, but it could also be unhealthy habits, past hurts, or false securities.

Letting go is just the beginning. The next crucial step is to resist the temptation to look back. The account of Lot's wife in Genesis 19:26 serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of longing for what we've left behind. When fleeing from the destruction of her city, she looked back and was turned into a pillar of salt. The Hebrew word used here implies she regarded her old life with favor and care.

When God points out something in our lives that needs to be left behind, we must be willing to move forward without glancing over our shoulder. This doesn't mean we forget our past entirely – God often reminds us of how far we've come. But our focus and energy should be directed towards what lies ahead.

The Apostle Paul, a man with a complex past, understood this principle well. In Philippians 3:13-14, he writes, "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Paul had every reason to dwell on his past – his prestigious position among the Pharisees, his leadership skills, even his zealous persecution of the early church. But he chose to answer God's call, deny himself, and press forward into the life God had prepared for him.

So, what's holding you back today? What part of your past are you gripping tightly? What are you afraid to release? The call to deny ourselves isn't about living a joyless, restricted life. It's about making room for something greater – the abundant life Jesus promises.

This journey of self-denial and forward movement isn't always easy. It requires courage, trust, and a willingness to be vulnerable before God. But the rewards are immeasurable. As we learn to look inward with honesty, live with open hands, and resist the pull of our past, we create space for God to work in powerful ways.

Take some time this week to reflect on what it means to go "all in" for your faith. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in your introspection. Be open to what God might be asking you to release. And when you do let go, keep your eyes fixed firmly on the path ahead.

Remember, this journey isn't meant to be traveled alone. Seek support from fellow believers, mentors, or spiritual leaders. Share your struggles and victories. Encourage one another in the pursuit of abundant life.

The invitation to deny ourselves is paradoxically an invitation to gain everything that truly matters. It's a call to exchange our limited perspectives and self-centered ambitions for God's infinite wisdom and perfect plan. As we learn to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus, we discover a life richer and more fulfilling than we could have ever imagined on our own.

Are you ready to go all in?