TEXT: Luke 9:23 “Then He said to them all: "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” THE DISCIPLINE OF DAILY DEVOTION: “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 WHY NECESSARY? Connection, Strength, and Direction "I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can't produce a thing.” John 15:5 The Message DAILY DECISION TO FOLLOW JESUS Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.” Romans 12:1 THE DYNAMICS OF DAILY DEVOTION: “Moses said to them, "It is the bread the LORD has given you to eat. This is what the LORD has commanded: 'Each one is to gather as much as he needs. Take an omer for each person you have in your tent.' " Exodus 16:16 HEART “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Proverbs 4:23 NLT MIND “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:27 HANDS "'What shall I do, Lord?' I asked.” Acts 22:10 THE DELIGHT OF DAILY DEVOTION “I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure.” Psalm 119:162