Following Jesus requires that we deny ourselves. We only have 2 choices. We choose something other than Christ, and that is our choice. We follow our own choice. We belive successes come from making the right choices and taking the right actions. Tell yourself no. Deny yourself. Then take up your cross. Sacrifice your control over your life and join Jesus. Why did you make the choices you've made? When you do things you think Jesus wants you to, you deny yourself and follow Him.