The Cross Centered Day

As a wrap of Spring Retreat we talked last night about things we can do to keep the cross of Christ in the middle every day. Here are some suggestions from C.J. Mahaney in his book Living the Cross Centered Life:

1. Memorize the Gospel
"God instructs us in the Psalms to store up His Word in our hearts. I love that picture. God wants us to tuck his promises into our hearts so that, no matter where we are or what we're doing, we can pull them out and be strengthened by their truth." (LTCCL page 133)

Here are some passages C.J. recommends to start with:
2 Corinthians 5:21
Romans 8:31-34
Isaiah 53:3-6
Romans 3:23-26
Romans 5:6-11
1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Galatians 2:21

2. Pray the Gospel
Remember that the reason you can come before the throne of God is through the work of Jesus on the cross, opening the Most Holy Place and giving us true communion with God. Continually praise God for the blood of Jesus, the cross, for your ability to pray at all.

3. Sing the Gospel
Fill your car, iPod, and home with songs that remind you of the cross and the work of Jesus on the cross. Here are a few links to some good albums that can keep you focuses on the cross:



Songs for the Cross Centered Life-Sovereign Grace Ministries






Adore and Tremble-Daniel Renstrom






Shattered-Dave Hunt






The First Circle-Enter the Worship Circle






Opposite Way-Leeland




4. Review how the Gospel has changed you
Remember what God has saved you from. Remember what you would be without Christ and praise him for the change he has brought into your life!

5. Study the Gospel
"Never be content with your current grasp of the Gospel. The gospel is life-permeating, world-altering, universe-changing truth. It has more facets than any diamond. We will never exhaust its depths." (LTCCL Page 142)

Here are a few books you can start with:



Living the Cross Centered Life by C.J. Mahaney



The Truth of the Cross by R.C. Sproul






Fifty Reasons why Jesus Came to Die by John Piper




The Cross of Christ by John Stott



Death by Love by Mark Driscoll



and a link to some great mp3 messages on the cross...for FREE!


Together for the Gospel conference 2006



There are so many more resources out there. Keep you eye on the links on the right side-bar of this blog to see more recommended books, music, and links to free downloads!