“To reach the supernatural bounds a person must depart from his natural bounds and leave self far off in respect to his interior and exterior limits in order to mount from a low state to the highest.”
—-John of the Cross
The medieval mystic John of the Cross gives us advice to move towards “supernatural bounds.” Self-denial is a big step in that journey with Christ. This concept (self-denial) is at odds with our culture of more. As with all disciplines, true self-denial is developed slowly and with care. Begin with living more simply, caring for the small things of life, living a life of thanks and seeking to touch someone in need.
A Pastor's Thoughts 
‘Give a cool cup of water to someone who is thirsty… The smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice.’ Matt 10:42 (The Message)
I am glad God asks so little. I have tried and failed to fill in the gap of where I am and where I think I should be. When I start small and stay small, God can do wonderful things, and it doesn’t matter if those things look small, or look big; they’re all worthwhile. Lovely post, thank you.