Paul said join in following his example; be imitators of him as he is of Christ. Paul is a somewhat spiritual clone, not as an apostle or preacher, but living in self-denial as Jesus did. Watch those who care about you. Watch those who respect you. Watch those who see your heart, kindness, and value. As believers of the faith and imitators of Jesus, we should keep our eyes on the prize of Jesus Christ.

Self-centered desires are nailed to the cross. We, the believers, must relive the cross before experiencing the resurrected life. If you have a cross—theological or symbolic—find joy in it! Be sincere and thorough in your walk; Renounce the devil, deny yourself, and pick up your cross daily.

Know that the Lord God will help you. Jesus will carry you through. Though the road is rough and the hills are hard to climb, if you have a cross, you have an enemy. But our citizenship is in heaven. So most importantly, we have a crown!