What Are You Really Trying to Save?

Jesus said, “For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” (Mark 8:35)

This isn’t a call to abandon life—it’s an invitation to actually find it.

For too long, I’ve tried to hold onto a version of life that looked good on the outside—built on my understanding, my plans, my expectations. But the deeper I walk with God, the clearer it becomes: that the life I was living wasn’t the one He designed for me.

The question that hit me today was this: Am I trying to preserve a life I built—or am I surrendering into the one God planned for me?

This isn’t about sacrifice for the sake of suffering. It’s about alignment—a sacred exchange. Losing the false version of life isn’t a loss at all. It’s the beginning of real living.

Jesus didn’t come to take life from us—He came to give it. And not just any life, but one that overflows with meaning, joy, connection, and purpose.

That’s what I want. Desperately.

I’m not just talking about happiness or surface-level gratitude. I’m talking about the fire that comes from knowing, deep down, that I’m exactly where God wants me—living a life that reflects His purpose and presence.

And there’s more.

Jesus says we lose our lives not just for His sake—but also for the gospel’s. That means our story, our decisions, our purpose isn’t just about us.

Our lives are meant to free others.

Our transformation should point people to Jesus.

Our story should shine light into someone else’s darkness.

Our obedience should unlock the same breakthrough for someone who’s barely hanging on.

I think of John the Baptist, who pointed people to the One who was coming.

The woman with the alabaster jar, who poured out her love in bold worship.

The disciples, who gave everything to spread the truth.

Now it’s our turn.

This life isn’t about self-preservation. It’s about pouring out what we’ve been given so others can taste the same freedom we’ve found.