36 “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?
37 “For what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
38 “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” Mark 8:34-38. (Emphasis added.)
We are focusing on the phrase “but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” What does it mean?
It certainly does not mean to foolishly waste your life so that you literally lose it. Jesus is not talking about suicide nor intentional recklessness.
Rather, it means to wisely spend your life in services to our LORD and others to fulfill your ministry, rather than selfishly spending your life to satisfy your own personal lusts and desires. Paul states: “But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:5-8. (Emphasis added.)
Paul rejoices in this use of his life and states: “But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.” Philippians 2:17
Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions 