There is more to denying ourselves than suffering and restraint. Even more importantly, Jesus also speaks to our identity.

* How do people identify you? Is it through your career, your family, your achievements, your baking, your looks?

* On a more personal level, how do you identify yourself?  What makes up who you are as a person?

To Deny Ourselves means that we willingly lay down our identity so that we can identify with Jesus.

* This is easier said than lived.

* Your identity can’t be based on your success as mom or dad

* Your identity can’t be based on your friendships

* Your identity can’t be based on your own work

* Your identity can’t be based on your social media skills and posts