Loss can feel like a closed door to what could be or what used to be. Each time may feel slightly different, but each time it breaks my heart. Yet, loss is a part of life.

I need to remember that. Maybe you do too.  Because loss has another dimension. It’s not always steeped in sorrow sinking us into despair.

At least it’s not meant to be.

In Matthew 16:24-26, Jesus teaches us a life-giving lesson about loss:

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?”

Our God-given survival instinct tells us to hold on to our lives. We should. He wants us to thrive. But while many losses have left me broken, the loss in this verse leads me on.

I lose a sense of ownership and gain a sense of stewardship.

I lose a sense of self-pity and gain a sense of soul worth.

I lose an insistence on my way and gain new insights to His.

Then I’m more alive than ever. And following Christ means I follow the One who has already solved every problem. Defeated every foe. Saved my soul.

As I give up my life for His sake, the loss leads me on His path. My true self is found. Then even my most desperate moments become a doorway to learn more about the heart of God.

This post is part of my "Lessons I've Learned About Life (so far)" series for the #write31days challenge. To find out more start here.