S – Then he said to them all, “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.

Luke 9:23 CSB

O – Commentary:  The cross was an instrument of violent and painful execution. To “take the cross” was to carry the horizontal beam (the patibulum) of the cross out to the site of execution, usually past a jeering mob. In *rhetorically strong terms, Jesus describes what all true *disciples must be ready for:  if they follow him, they must be ready to face literal scorn on the road to eventual martyrdom, for they must follow to the cross

 The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament

* Interesting notes on this verse: 

•   Jesus had not gone to the cross yet.  He is introducing how He is going to die.
• “Daily” is only found in the book of Luke

A – The crucifixion story is horrific and culminates in a walk of “condemnation” to the cross.  When we recognize the victory of the cross, it changes the nature of that walk.  We know the enemy is going to bring shame, condemnation and life circumstances to challenge us.  We know we are fallible humans whose nature it is to give in to our impulses and temptations.  But, we are filled with the power of God and given a Holy Spirit to lead us through the daily trip to the cross toward victory.

R – Lord, life is hard.  Yet, you promise me victory when I take on your character and calling.  Whatever I will face today, you promise to go with me through it.  You give me a helper to navigate and advocate for me.  Let me confidently face each situation with your wisdom, insights and courage.