Today’s Scripture is: Mark 8:34–36

**Today's devotional is in response to listener requests.**

This episode tackles one of the most misused phrases in all of scripture — and one that has caused real harm for a lot of people. We look at what Jesus was actually calling us toward, through the lens of psychology and the concept of the true and false self.

We explore:

-The difference between denying the false self and erasing your personhood

-How fear-based identity forms — and why it's not the truest version of who you are

-Why "take up your cross" is not an invitation to accept abuse, toxic relationships, or depression as God's will

-Jesus as a model of strength, not smallness — and what that means for us

To Go Deeper:

Blog post: What Does It Really Mean to Deny Yourself

Get the first 3 chapters free of The Best of You

Episode 56: Am I Really Supposed to Die To Myself?

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While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍

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