READ: Ezra 5,6; Psalms 20; Acts 14:19-28
SCRIPTURE: Acts 14: 21 They
preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they
returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch,
22 strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the
faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they
said.
OBSERVATION: Despite oppositions in the first missionary journey, Paul
and Barnaba saw many people coming to the Lord. In the city where people stoned
Paul and left him for dead, God gave them “a large number of disciples.” After
seeing such big numbers, Paul and Barnaba did not stay there. Instead, they returned
to other cities where they recently established churches to strengthen and
encourage the disciples “to remain true to
the faith.” They did not speak about the worldly blessings of being Jesus’
disciples. But they reminded them to count the cost of following Jesus Christ. The
new disciples needed to know about the possible dangers and sufferings of
living as faithful Christians. Paul and Barnaba were able to tell them from
their sufferings. Whether we live in a friendly Christian environment or an unfavorable
non-Christian context, we may face suffering when we want to be truthful to our
call and faith in Jesus Christ. Carrying the cross to follow Jesus Christ is something
that every disciple must do in their life. The hardship may vary from person to
person, but it is part of a faithful Christian life. Remembering the sufferings
of his first ministry journey, Paul wrote to Timothy, “In fact, everyone who
wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim.3:12). However,
we need not be discouraged about our sufferings. Jesus Christ already told us, “In
this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world”
(Jn.16:33). Our faithful Christian life brings glory to God and spreads the
aroma of the knowledge of Christ everywhere. Let us remember: “For our light
and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs
them all” (2 Cor.4:17).
APPLICATION: Christian life is a life with Christ. As a follower
of Christ, I do not belong to the world. Therefore, I should not conform to the
pattern of the world. I must remain faithful to Jesus Christ in everything. If
I endure sufferings for Christ, I will also reign with him. No trial and
tribulation can separate me from the Love of God. If I suffer as a Christian, I
need not be ashamed of it. Instead, I can praise God for the opportunity to
testify my faith in Jesus Christ.
PRAYER: Jesus, thank you for strengthening and encouraging
me to remain faithful to you. Lord, help me seek first the Kingdom of God and his
righteousness in everything and every day. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to remain
faithful to God even when I go through sufferings for Christ’s sake. Amen.
- Arputharaj Samuel
+91 9538328573
Day - 202
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