If we take up the cross, will we but suffer pain

If we take up the cross

will we but suffer pain?

Nay

if we bear the cross

be sure that we will die!

The meaning of the cross is that we may be slain;

The cross experienced the self will crucify.

Divine deliverance e’er slays man by the cross;

Though cruel it may seem

it is a grand release.

Christ ne’er will be our life if we escape the cross;

Christ ne’er will be expressed but by our sure decease.

The cross’s final goal

that God’s will be fulfilled;

His will’s arch enemy is but the self of man.

If self be done away and all the soul-life killed

God’s will shall then prevail and prospered be His plan.