To “take up your cross” means to willingly accept challenges, sacrifices, or burdens in life, especially when pursuing a greater purpose or moral duty. It implies enduring hardships with perseverance and faith, often in the face of personal difficulty or adversity.
Origins of What Does It Mean to Take Up Your Cross?
This phrase originates from the Bible, specifically in the New Testament where Jesus instructs his followers to “take up their cross” (Matthew 16:24). It symbolizes the acceptance of suffering, sacrifice, and commitment in following one’s faith or responsibilities.
How to Use What Does It Mean to Take Up Your Cross in a Sentence?
The phrase is often used to describe situations where someone embraces difficult responsibilities or challenges with courage and resolve.
1. “Even though caring for her sick mother was tough, she saw it as taking up her cross.”
Explanation: She accepted the challenge as a personal responsibility.
2. “Starting a non-profit in a struggling community was his way of taking up his cross.”
Explanation: He willingly faced obstacles to help others.
3. “Despite the criticism, she continued her work, taking up her cross daily.”
Explanation: She persevered in her mission despite opposition.
4. “Choosing to speak out against injustice felt like taking up my cross.”
Explanation: The person accepted the personal cost of standing up for what’s right.
5. “Moving to a new country without support was his way of taking up his cross for a better future.”
Explanation: He accepted the hardship for a meaningful goal.
Pronunciation of What Does It Mean to Take Up Your Cross
Pronounced as: wʌt dʌz ɪt miːn tuː teɪk ʌp jɔːr krɒs
Words Similar to What Does It Mean to Take Up Your Cross
• Bearing a burden: Carrying a heavy emotional, physical, or moral responsibility.
• Carrying your weight: Doing your fair share of work or responsibility.
• Facing the music: Confronting the consequences of your actions.
• Walking the hard path: Choosing a difficult but morally right course of action.
• Enduring the cross: Similar to “taking up your cross,” implying perseverance through hardship.
