| II Kings 17:1-18:12; Acts 20:1-38; Psalm 148:1-14; Proverbs 18:6-7
“I testified to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus. And now I am on my way to Jerusalem, bound in my spirit, not knowing what I will encounter there, except that in town after town the Holy Spirit testifies to me that chains and afflictions are waiting for me. But I count my life of no value to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace.” (Acts 20:21-24)
How many of us would try to rebuke the Apostle Paul. We might talk to him about a positive confession and then instruct him on how much the Lord needs him because he’s such a great teacher. Peter tried to rebuke Jesus too. Do you remember how that turned out? That’s right, Jesus rebuked Satan who was speaking through Peter. (Matthew 16:21-23) “You mean we are subject to demonic influence?” Yup.
I know that sounds weird but we have to realize that not everything in life is going to be pleasant. We can’t run from things that are hard. There are going to be martyrs. There are going to be persecuted people. Bad things will happen to good people. We live in a sin sick world. Both Jesus and Paul got a word from the Father of how their lives would end and neither one chose to hang onto this world. If we hold our life, we will lose it. Strive to run your race well, focus on eternity and finish strong.
PRAYER:
Lord, I ask You to prepare my heart. I see we will all suffer in some way at some time. I pray to have the attitude of Paul, recognizing that I can’t put my heart totally into this world. Please help me to keep an eternal perspective. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen. |
