The troubles of Christians are fitly called crosses. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus Christ reminds us that if we want to follow Him, we have to deny ourselves, take up pour cross and follow Him.

Every disciple of Jesus Christ has his cross and must count upon it, as each has his special duty to be done. Crosses are the common lot of God’s children, but of this common lot, each has its particular share.

We must not by our rashness and indiscretion pull crosses down upon our heads, but must take them up when they are laid in our way.