In this episode of Let’s Talk: Truth in Love, released just after Ash Wednesday, we explore two essential spiritual disciplines for every Christian—self-examination and self-denial. While many church traditions observe Lent as a focused season of repentance, fasting, and preparation leading to Easter, these practices are not limited to six weeks on the calendar. They are vital habits for anyone who desires spiritual renewal and deeper intimacy with God.

Jesus commands us both to love ourselves and to deny ourselves—two truths that seem to create tension. We unpack what that really means. Loving yourself is not arrogance or self-absorption; it is seeing yourself as God sees you—His beloved, valued and designed with purpose. At the same time, denying yourself does not mean denying your worth. It means surrendering self-rule, self-sufficiency, and self-righteousness, trusting God to be Lord of your life. As Jesus said, “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”

We also discuss the powerful spiritual practice known as the Daily Examen—a simple, intentional pause to invite God to search our hearts (Psalm 139:23–24). Through the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, we allow Him to reveal where we followed His leading, where we resisted Him, and how we can align more fully with Christ. True self-examination isn’t about fixing others; it’s about letting God transform us.

Finally, we explore fasting as self-denial—not as religious performance or a way to manipulate God, but as a discipline that trains our hearts to depend on Him. Whether fasting from food, social media, or another attachment, the goal is greater love for God and deeper compassion for others (Isaiah 58). Even in discomfort, we learn to trust, to serve, and to live under Christ’s Lordship.

Self-examination and self-denial are not about self-rejection—they are about discovering our true identity in Christ and aligning our lives with His Kingdom. As we daily surrender to Him, we experience His peace, His joy, and the freedom to share His love and goodness with the world.

Looking for more? Dive deeper into the truth in love with these three insightful books:
• Moon in the Darkness
• Be with Jesus, Be like Jesus, Be for Jesus
• Christ in Us is the Hope of Glory

These books are available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats. To learn more, visit
www.friendsofthekingministries.org, where you can also read columns written for the Kingsport Times-News over the past eighteen years.

God bless, and we look forward to having you join us for the next episode.