The phrase ‘crucify yourself daily’ is a powerful spiritual expression that draws directly from biblical teachings. It does not refer to physical harm, but rather to a deep, internal surrender and commitment to live a Christ-centered life. This concept invites believers to deny their sinful nature every day and live according to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. For many Christians, the call to ‘crucify the flesh’ and ‘take up the cross daily’ serves as a reminder of the ongoing transformation required in the life of faith. This topic will explore relevant Bible verses, their meanings, and how the principle of crucifying oneself daily applies to modern Christian living.
Biblical Basis of Crucifying Yourself Daily
Galatians 2:20 A Life Crucified with Christ
One of the most well-known verses related to this concept is Galatians 2:20:
‘I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.’
In this verse, the apostle Paul explains that his old self, dominated by sin and the flesh, has been spiritually crucified with Christ. This means he no longer follows his own will but lives in total dependence on Jesus. This verse forms the foundation for the idea of crucifying oneself spiritually.
Luke 9:23 Taking Up the Cross Daily
Jesus Himself taught this principle in Luke 9:23:
‘Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
This daily call to discipleship is not passive. It requires deliberate action denying selfish desires, embracing sacrifice, and choosing obedience every single day. The phrase ‘take up their cross’ directly relates to dying to self, mirroring the death of Jesus on the cross.
Romans 6:6 Putting the Old Self to Death
Another relevant passage is Romans 6:6:
‘For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.’
This verse explains that the believer’s sinful nature was crucified with Christ. However, the struggle against sin continues daily, requiring believers to actively live out that spiritual reality.
What It Means to Crucify Yourself Daily
Spiritual Surrender
Crucifying oneself daily means choosing to surrender one’s own desires and ambitions for the sake of God’s will. It is not a one-time act but a continuous process of letting go of pride, anger, jealousy, lust, and all other works of the flesh.
Walking in the Spirit
Paul writes in Galatians 5:24:
‘Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.’
Daily crucifixion of the self is tied to walking in the Spirit. It involves choosing to live in love, peace, patience, kindness, and other fruits of the Spirit, rather than giving in to the impulses of the flesh.
A Daily Decision
Each morning presents a choice: Will you live for yourself or for Christ? Crucifying yourself daily is about making that conscious decision every day to live as a servant of God and a follower of Jesus Christ.
Practical Ways to Live Out Daily Crucifixion
1. Daily Prayer and Devotion
- Begin each day with prayer, asking God for strength to resist temptation.
- Read Scripture to renew your mind and focus your heart on eternal truths.
2. Self-Examination
- Reflect regularly on your thoughts and actions.
- Ask yourself: Am I living for God or for myself today?
3. Confession and Repentance
- Be quick to confess sins and seek forgiveness.
- Repent sincerely and ask the Holy Spirit to help you change.
4. Serving Others
- Put the needs of others before your own.
- Love your neighbor as yourself, even when it costs you time or comfort.
5. Resisting Temptation
- Identify areas where you are vulnerable to sin.
- Avoid situations that feed the flesh and instead pursue what strengthens the spirit.
The Benefits of Crucifying the Flesh
Spiritual Growth
As you deny yourself and follow Christ, you grow in maturity and develop a deeper relationship with God. Trials become opportunities for character development and increased faith.
Freedom from Sin
Although sin still tempts, its power over you is broken when you choose to live a crucified life. You’re no longer a slave to sin, but a servant of righteousness.
Increased Joy and Peace
Letting go of selfish desires leads to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. Joy comes not from self-indulgence, but from walking in alignment with God’s purpose.
Being a Living Testimony
When you live a crucified life, others see Christ in you. Your actions reflect your faith and can lead others to seek the same transformative relationship with Jesus.
Common Misunderstandings
It Does Not Mean Harming Yourself
Some people may misinterpret the concept as promoting physical suffering or self-abuse. The Bible never encourages physical harm as a path to holiness. Crucifying yourself daily is spiritual, not physical.
It’s Not About Perfection
Daily crucifixion doesn’t mean you’ll never sin or struggle. It means you consistently return to Christ, seek forgiveness, and realign your heart with God’s will, no matter how many times you stumble.
It’s Not Just for Pastors or Saints
Every believer, regardless of title or maturity level, is called to take up their cross daily. It’s a universal command for all who choose to follow Jesus.
The biblical teaching to crucify yourself daily is a profound call to surrender, obedience, and spiritual growth. Rooted in verses like Galatians 2:20, Luke 9:23, and Romans 6:6, this principle invites believers to let go of worldly desires and live fully for Christ. It is a daily decision to die to sin and self and to walk in the freedom and power of the Holy Spirit. While the path is not always easy, it leads to a life filled with peace, purpose, and eternal reward. Each day brings a new opportunity to say, Not my will, but Yours be done, and live as one truly crucified with Christ.