We don't like to ever tell ourselves no. We can come up with dozens of ways to justify our actions. Temptation does not come from outside sources. The devil didn't make you do it. Temptation comes from within. To move from being just a believer to a fired-up disciple of Christ, we must learn to deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Jesus. It's the "denying ourselves" that we too often forget to do. The Holy Spirit, our gift at our baptism, leads us to worship, to believe and to deny ourselves. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control -- this is what we must clothe ourselves with each day. How has God shaped each one of us to serve in His kingdom? Pastor Ed Brashier shares this week's message from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gardendale, Ala.