What does it mean to deny oneself in Christianity?

Denying oneself is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. It involves relinquishing the notion that we can earn God's favor through our works or merit. Instead, it acknowledges that our standing before God relies entirely on Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus invites His followers to take up their cross and follow Him, illustrating that genuine discipleship involves sacrificing our desires and ambitions for the sake of His will. This self-denial is not about physical privation or ritualistic practices; rather, it is about a heart attitude that recognizes our need for Christ's grace and strives to live in a way that reflects His love and mercy to others.