So many choose to follow Me without counting the cost. The Cross represents pain and suffering. All must carry their cross to follow the Master. Each cross is different, but the result is the same. It will test you to bring all into submission to My will and My ways.
Notice the response of Peter and Judas when they failed their test. Judas killed himself but Peter was restored. Both failed. Only one passed the test. As Peter was sifted, so will you be sifted. Satan means to destroy, but I am refining and purifying My Bride. Remember that you are not above your Master. For it was My Son's obedience and setting His face towards the Cross that brought the victory. You, too, must set your face towards the Cross. Therein lies your victory. Keep your eyes on the Cross. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Follow the Master and victory is assured.
Matthew 27:3-5 New International Version (NIV)
3 When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. 4 “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.”
“What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.”
5 So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.
Luke 22:31-32 Amplified Bible (AMP)
31 “Simon, Simon (Peter), listen! Satan has demanded permission to sift [all of] you like grain; 32 but I have prayed [especially] for you [Peter], that your faith [and confidence in Me] may not fail; and you, once you have turned back again [to Me], strengthen and support your brothers [in the faith].”
Luke 14:27 Amplified Bible (AMP)
Whoever does not carry his own cross [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow after Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me] cannot be My disciple.
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