Identifying With His sufferings:

     Nothing has changed since we were told that the world hated Him and it would hate us.


     We must all be reminded that in spite of the universal need for salvation, the Gospel message is still met with resistance.  It is not to be considered a terrible offense against you when someone goes after you because you are a Christian.  It is to be recognized and taken to the Lord.  There should not be any indignation or attempt to get even. 


     It is part of our calling.  We don’t need to look for conflict, and sometimes Christians 
make themselves targets just by being jerks.  Overall, we have been warned, taught and commissioned.


   None of us has been stripped and flogged.   What the early fathers of the faith endured was incredible.  They had no immunity to pain and humiliation.  It was not easy just because of the era.


     Soldier of The Cross, pray.  Maybe fast.  Be bold.  The hardest thing is when we obey the Spirit and are rejected by those we love and respect.  So be it.  This is about eternity, and there must be a bottom line decision before the Lord.


     You have told Him He can love through you.  
     You have told Him He can do anything with your life. 
     You have told Him you will walk by faith.


     Have you told Him you will represent Him and let Him have the result?
     Tell Him aloud.  Today.
 

            Must I be carried to the skies
            On flowery beds of ease,
            While others fought to win the prize,
            And sailed through bloody seas?

            Sure I must fight if I would reign;
            Increase my courage, Lord.
            I’ll bear the toil, endure the pain,
            Supported by Thy Word.