Sometimes, when we consider really praying, coming close to God (or, perhaps more accurately, letting God come close), we fear what God might expect of us — some great trial, some difficult deed — or we fear that we will be asked to give up what is most precious to us — a loved one, a lifestyle.
We’re right to be afraid, but these fears are a kind of projection: the truth is far worse: God wants us to give up our very selves, our lives.