Self-denial is the opposite of self-definition.
In order to practice the kind of self-denial that Jesus did, 

we must therefore turn away from false standards 

which so often shape our identity, values, and goals,

instead allowing God and his purposes to define the things 

that are most important to us and about us.


Commitment 1:
I will not define myself according to my group status.

Commitment 2:
I will not define myself according to my accomplishments.

Commitment 3:
I will not define myself according to reputation or appearance.

Commitment 4:
I will not define myself according to what I posses, enjoy, lose, or lack.

Commitment 5:
I will value God's testimony about me more than I fear anyone's judgment against me.

Commitment 6:
I will pursue God's vision for me rather than conforming to human expectations of me.


(C. D. "Jimmy" AGAN III, "The IMITATION of CHRIST in the GOSPEL of LUKE")