Father, thank You for getting me safely home last night. The snow is beautiful today but it sure requires a bit more caution when traveling through it. The beauty of Your creation never ceases to amaze me. That you for the wonderful gift!
1 Peter 4:12-19 (<<click here)
Lord, as I read this passage this morning, it speaks of partnering with You in Your suffering and how we should be glad for it in that it enables us to “have the wonderful joy of seeing [Your] glory when it is revealed to all the world.”
As I sit here thinking on suffering a persecution, I knew that I had read of this before and written on it as well. A year and a half ago I wrote of persecution in reference to Paul’s writings in 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16 and my thoughts haven’t changed. If anything, it is more appropriate today than ever. I feel compelled to share it once more
Lord, You certainly experienced persecution (even to the point of death). Paul did, as well as, the Jewish Christians and the Thessalonians. But me? Uh…no. I’m not putting a requisition in, by any means, but the term is thrown around a lot today. I realize that many of my brothers and sisters in the faith are laying their lives on the line and many may be ushered into Your presence even this day. (Lord, may Your strength and love fill believers in the Middle East and other areas of the world today.)
But persecution here? Uh…no. We may have had our toes stomped on but we have yet to be persecuted. Lord, I sincerely believe that if we did experience real persecution in our country that many would not have the stomach for it and would quickly desert the ranks.
I don’t know when it will happen or even if it will happen in my lifetime but persecution will come. And, Lord, if it does come while I still have breath, may I use every one of those breaths, to proclaim my faith in You. May I be filled with Your strength and love to the very last breath!
But, Jesus…as I sit here and ponder…I realize that regardless of persecution that I should be living that way now! I have no idea when my life here will be complete so I plead that You will give me the strength and love to live out my faith and to share that faith, each and every day! May I be true to You – Amen!
Feb 9th, Thurs, 8:36 am
