To bear our cross means to carry a burden.

Similar expressions include:

• Carry our cross
• Cross to bear
• Cross to carry

All mean we live with difficulty. We often carry our burden alone.

Burdens or responsibilities may include:

• Illness
• Financial problems
• Difficult relationships

We may sometimes joke about small burdens, such as:

• Chores we don’t like (for example, cooking and cleaning)
• Busybody neighbors
• Active children

To bear our cross comes from the Bible.

Before Jesus was crucified, soldiers beat Him. Then Jesus had to carry His cross. When Jesus became too weak, soldiers forced another man to carry Jesus’ cross for Him.

Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for our sins. He loves us that much.

Yet, after three days, Jesus rose from the dead. He won the battle against sin and death. If we accept Jesus as Savior, He forgives our sins and promises us eternal life. He gives us a fresh start. That is the promise of Easter.

Jesus told His followers to count the cost and take up our cross.

That means we:

• Choose Jesus above everything.
• Give God control of our lives.
• Follow God’s will wherever that leads and whatever the cost.

Taking up our cross for Jesus is not always easy. It is always worth it.

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).

Do you have an expression you want explained or a thought about this one? If so, please comment below.

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