The Believer’s daily walk in the faith of Yahuah, the themes of repentance, carrying one’s cross, and crucifying the flesh are intertwined concepts that call believers to embrace a life of deep spiritual transformation. These ideas are often discussed in Scripture and are vital aspects of the journey toward sanctification. They are not mere theological concepts but practical steps in the life of anyone seeking to walk in the footsteps of Yahushua HaMashiach (Jesus Christ).
1. The Call to Repentance
Repentance is the first step in the journey toward reconciliation with Yahuah. In biblical terms, repentance refers to a turning away from sin (breaking Yahuah’s laws) and returning to Yahuah. It is a change of heart and mind that leads to a change in behavior. In the Gospels, Yahushua’s message was clear: “Repent, for the kingdom of Yahuah is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). This call to repentance is not just an isolated moment of sorrow or regret; it is a lifelong attitude of humility and contrition, recognizing one’s need for Yahuah’s grace.
Repentance begins when a person acknowledges their sinful nature (which disobeys Yahuah’s commands), feels genuine sorrow for their wrongdoings, and turns toward Yahuah for forgiveness. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 2:4 that it is Yahuah’s kindness that leads us to repentance. This kindness is revealed through Yahushua’s sacrifice on the cross, which provides the ultimate opportunity for redemption.
Repentance is not about merely feeling sorry; it is about making a conscious decision to turn away from sin (breaking Yahuah’s laws) and pursue a life of holiness. It requires a deep reflection on one’s actions, a willingness to change, and an openness to Yahuah’s transforming power in Yahushua.
2. Carrying Your Cross
The next essential element in the walk of faith is the command to carry our cross. Yahushua famously said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). To carry one’s cross means to willingly endure the suffering, trials, and challenges that come with following Yahushua. It is a call to discipleship that requires sacrifice.
In the Roman world, the cross was a symbol of death—a gruesome and painful end. Yahushua’s words here were not about literal crucifixion, but about a willingness to suffer for His sake. To take up one’s cross is to deny self-centered desires, confront one’s selfish ambitions, and submit to the will of Yahuah, even when it is difficult.
Carrying the cross involves embracing hardship, enduring persecution, and living in a way that honors Yahuah, even when society or personal circumstances make it challenging. It is a call to surrender our own will and to align our lives with Yahuah’s divine purpose.
3. Crucifying the Flesh
Closely tied to repentance and carrying the cross is the idea of crucifying the flesh. The term “flesh” in Scripture refers not just to our physical bodies but to our sinful nature, our desires, and tendencies that lead us away from Yahuah. The Apostle Paul writes in Galatians 5:24, “Those who belong to Yahushua HaMashiach have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
Crucifying the flesh involves putting to death the sinful inclinations that reside within us. It is not simply about avoiding certain behaviors or actions, but about undergoing a radical transformation where we die to our old way of life. This process is painful, as it requires confronting deep-seated desires, habits, and thought patterns that are contrary to Yahuah’s will.
This action is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Each day, believers are called to crucify their flesh by resisting temptations, denying selfish desires, and choosing to live according to the Spirit. It is an act of spiritual warfare where the believer actively fights against sin (breaking Yahuah’s laws) and chooses to submit to Yahuah’s authority.
4. The Reward of Transformation
Although repentance, carrying our cross, and crucifying the flesh may seem difficult and even counterintuitive, they lead to spiritual transformation. Through these acts, believers become more like Yahushua, drawing closer to Yahuah and becoming a reflection of His holiness and grace.
Yahushua promised that those who follow Him faithfully would experience the ultimate reward: eternal life. In Mark 8:35, He said, “Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.” The paradox here is that in denying oneself and embracing Yahushua’s teachings, believers discover the true meaning of life and freedom. It is only through surrendering our will and crucifying the flesh that we can experience the abundant life Yahushua promises.
5. Conclusion: A Life of Total Surrender
Repentance, carrying the cross, and crucifying the flesh are not merely doctrines to be discussed or understood; they are practices that shape the life of a true disciple of Yahushua. These principles guide believers in their walk with Yahuah, calling them to deny themselves, endure hardship, and continually submit their lives to the work of the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit).
In embracing these challenges, believers find the key to spiritual growth and transformation. The path is not easy, but the rewards are eternal. Through repentance, carrying our cross, and crucifying the flesh, we become more like Yahushua, and we experience the joy and peace that comes from living a life surrendered to Yahuah.
Shalom
