What does the Bible say about losing your life for Christ?

In Luke 9:24, Jesus states, 'For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.' This verse highlights a central tenet of Christ’s teaching: true life and salvation are found not in self-preservation or earthly pursuits, but by surrendering oneself to the will of God and the service of Christ. Believers are called to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. This paradoxical truth underscores that the more we try to cling to our lives, our desires, and our ambitions, the more we lose sight of the eternal life that God offers through Jesus Christ.