Jesus did not ask us to disown ourselves but to deny ourselves. Agreeing to do something that is uncomfortable or guilt driven, we tend to “grin and bear it” in the name of Christ as the suffering servant. However, that is not the example Jesus set for us as He did not disown Himself. He was very present, aware and intentional. He was completely spirit led.

When we disown ourselves, we shut down a part of us to just get through the situation. By shutting down, we have now just prevented the Lord to have His way in the situation also as we grieve His spirit.

Denying yourself is different. We deny lustful thoughts, stealing and indulging in the flesh. We choose to be Spirit led and not flesh driven. Ask yourself, “Does this act come from condemnation, guilt or cause resentment in me?” If so, ask the Lord to give you the strength to say no. God does not ask us to please people, He asks us to please the Lord. We need to Own our decisions and choices before the Lord as Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”