Deny Yourself

Jesus said, “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."  Self-denial has an incredible impact.  It refines the soul, sharpens the senses, strengthens the will, and tempers our desires.

My life will be infinitely better if I learn to deny myself…to just say no.

The ability to deny myself is inseparably linked to my ability to succeed at anything.  It is central to life.

For the past 6 days, I have said no to alcohol.  It’s been much easier than I anticipated.  Last night, while the kids were at their dad’s, I was making Beer Cheese Soup for Eva’s birthday party on Saturday night.  I had actually never made it before, but loved it at the annual St. Patrick’s Day party we used to go to.  It’s been several years since we attended this party, but I was really craving the soup.  Since we plan to go to the parade on Saturday morning and then host Eva’s birthday that night, I thought maybe a little Irish tradition for food (beer cheese soup and Rueben sandwiches) would be good at her party.  I found a recipe that sounded close to what I remember the soup being and got to work.

I brought up four Bud Lights from the downstairs fridge for the soup.  Then realized I only needed 3.  I opened three and began to dump them in individually.  As I was pouring in the last can, I heard a voice tell me to take the last few drinks.  I stopped pouring for a second.  Then realizing the temptation of the devil, poured the rest into the soup.  I boiled the beer for over 3 minutes to ensure the alcohol was evaporated.  I put the fourth beer back in the fridge and made a coconut water and cream soda.

It felt really good to say no to that temptation.

I know tomorrow at the parage will be a challenge, but I’m looking forward to denying myself each day.  The confidence and strength in saying no only escalates my will power.

Today, I also denied myself going to McDonalds and ate some Ramen Noodles instead.

Nothing earth shattering, for sure.  But choosing to put God’s will before my own.

Jesus, give me the grace and strength to say no to myself.

Amen.