“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6
Years ago, when discussion about Jesus happened on the Oprah show, Oprah once argued, “there couldn’t possibly be just one way.” She criticized those sharing their belief Jesus was the only way.
The apostles were on a ride of a lifetime. This was only the beginning for them. They were beaten, thrown into prison, and put on trial. 11 of the 12 apostles were murdered for their faith in Jesus. John, the only disciple who died a natural death was boiled in oil and banished to the island of Patmos.
You could consider the disciples potentially young in their faith at this time. This is not long after Jesus has resurrected and they have been empowered by the Holy Spirit, yet they were on fire for God... and it showed! Look at their response of their persecution: “So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.” Acts 5:41
Yes! They said... we are worthy to suffer for Jesus. Let’s be honest here, not high on my personal list to suffer. Our suffering at this moment seems to only be potential ridiculing and being argued against but the reality is as we step into following Jesus there is a likelihood that persecution and suffering could ramp up. Have you prepared your heart for these moments? When issues come in life, have you settled it isn’t because the Father loves you any less? Have you set your mind to the truth these things in life are opportunities to rejoice?
Some of us know suffering and persecution to an extent while others know it very well. It would be good to settle things in your heart this day so when times like these come, our hearts are set on the goodness of God, not the difficulty of the moment.
- To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.