response 1

if i may be a wise person for a day, this would be what i would say.

Man denies himself, that he might be taken closer his Self.

Self being the likeness and the image of God, and a more whole representation of the loves, pleasures and individuality of a person. Besides, the vitality of a fellowship with God through Jesus Christ necessitates our abiding in Him and the denial of the selves that mar the Self. Denying oneself so that one can be closer to the Self, brings a person closer to bearing the image of God and advancing the authority of the Kingdom.

That being said, i think the denying of self comes in accordance with the gifts and pleasures that God has given to us. I really don't think God would call us to deny the very things He gave us to live life in abundance. The measure might be the extent to which these pleasures distract us from discovering and living more like the Self (the unfinished work of God that we all are).

whilst rach is pondering such cheem things in the southern hemisphere, i am being confronted with north american superiority and cultural disparities. for more insight, read tschustoday.blogspot.com and please offer responses.