Bible Reading: Exodus 22-24; Matthew 20:17-32
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” Hebrews 11:2 (KJV)
For the first time in His earthly journey Jesus opened up to the disciples in plain language what awaits Him in Jerusalem; how those who hate Him will eventually come out tops. But all these is so that the will of the Father will be done. He said in Matthew 20:18-19 (KJV), “Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, [19] And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again.”
Today, we love that part of healing, miracles and signs and wonders. We love seeing people saved because it brings joy both here on earth and in heaven. But persecution will arise for the sake of the same things that have given us joy before. The world will fight back and when it does many christians tend to give up their belief in Christ. Follow the example of Jesus who kept His eyes on the ultimate prize awaiting Him after all the debacle.
Persecution for His name sake brings glory to God but many christians don’t look forward to it. Many times you may have been praised for your integrity and honesty at work but the day the powers that be at the work place would want to do something contrary to the rules of the company you will be their first target. Your integrity becomes a threat to their evil works and they may force this honest individual out of the system.
The whole essence of life as seen by Jesus’ lifestyle is to do the will of the Father. It will surely bring pain at some point but there is peace and joy inwardly for all who stay till the end. Remember, Jesus has paid the price already and shown us an example of how we must embrace persecution as a part of our christian journey. The grace has been released to help you fulfill God’s will on earth.
Prayer: Father, I receive grace to build capacity in the spirit that will sustain me in my journey with You in life.
Bro. Worthmore Aghanenu