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Dead Lifting Your Cross (IMPACT HARD DEVOTIONAL: DAY 6)

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What Does It Mean To Be A Man?

Dead Lifting Your Cross

“Then Jesus said to all of them, ‘If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”

Luke 9:23

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There is no dead lift more demanding than carrying one’s own cross. When Jesus carried His cross up the hill of Calvary, He had already been beaten and scourged within an inch of His life. Most experts believe Jesus carried the cross-beam portion of the cross known as the patibulum. It was likely 6 feet long and weighed 125 pounds. It would have been placed on His neck and shoulders, and tied to His hands. Walking through a jeering and mocking crowd, He would have walked approximately a half mile with an elevation gain of about 100 feet. Every step taking Jesus closer to His death.

To be a follower of Jesus means taking up your cross and following Him. If that sounds hard, then you are beginning to understand the cost of discipleship. The call to follow Jesus is not an invitation to add a little Jesus like sprinkles on a cupcake. Following Jesus means dying to yourself, your sinful desires, your toxic pride, and your selfish attitude. It’s a narrow path, and few will find it.

Don’t be so quick to spiritualize this verse and convince yourself it doesn’t really say what it really says. In what way do you need to crucify (put to death) your own sin, pride, apathy, and dependence upon pleasure?

Reflection: (Don’t skip this!)

What do I need to know?
How do I need to grow?
Where does this need to show up in my life?

Take the challenge, step up to the task, and watch God transform your life, your relationships and your legacy over the next 75 days in God’s Word.

Join the IMPACT Hard 75 Day Challenge!

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To Equip & Encourage

Dead Lifting Your Cross (IMPACT HARD DEVOTIONAL: DAY 6)

IMPACT HARD | 75 Day Devotional for Men | © 2026

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