perseverance in faith

Apr

2024

Facing Rejection: The Cost of Following Christ

John 15:19 reminds us, “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (NIV).

This verse highlights a reality – following Christ can lead to rejection.

Price of Choosing Christ

Choosing Christ comes at a cost. It means embracing values and beliefs that differ from the world’s.

It means living differently, loving differently, and serving differently. This difference can make us targets for ridicule, rejection, and even persecution.

However, Jesus offers comfort: we’re not alone. He chose us despite the world’s opposition, and He promises to be with us (John 16:33).

Persevering Through Trials

The good news is that we don’t face this rejection alone. Jesus promises to guide us and give us the strength to persevere.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

When trials come, we can find comfort in knowing He has already overcome the world. His promises and faithfulness assure us He will never abandon us.

Respond with Love

Despite the hatred, we’re called to love. Loving our enemies shows them Christ’s love and demonstrates that our motivation is love and compassion, not hatred or revenge.

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”
Matthew 5:44

Loving our enemies also frees us from the burden of bitterness and allows God’s love to transform us.

Facing rejection for your faith can be challenging, but it’s a sign you’re on the right path. You called to follow Christ, persevere through trials, and respond with love.

Commit to living a life that honors God even in the face of opposition. Trust in His love and grace, allowing Him to work through you for His glory.

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“One Minute with God”

Apr

2024

Entering God’s Rest

Hebrews 4:1 – Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it.

In this verse, believers are warned not to repeat the Israelites’ mistake in the wilderness and miss out on “entering his rest.” This verse offers an invitation and a challenge: to embrace God’s rest, signifying His salvation and presence.

Promise of God’s Rest

The Scripture emphasizes God’s enduring promise of rest – a spiritual reality and eternal destiny, not a physical state.

It’s a dynamic relationship, a divine provision, and a gift secured by Christ’s work.

We might think God’s rest is irrelevant or unattainable, but it’s what we truly need and long for.

Danger of Falling Short

The verse warns of the danger of “falling short” of God’s rest due to sin and unbelief. It’s a consequence of disobedience and rebellion, not a mere possibility.

We might think it’s avoidable or reversible, but the truth is, it’s a real and permanent consequence.

Means of Entering: Faith

The author reveals faith as the key to entering God’s rest. It’s trust and obedience in God and His Word, the confidence we have in His promises.

By faith, we access the rest He prepared for us, accomplished through Christ’s sacrifice, and applied by the Holy Spirit.

Faith is NOT optional, but it’s essential and sufficient; it’s what God requires and honors.

Goal of Resting

The Scripture verse implies the goal is to “rest” in God’s rest. It’s experiencing His peace, joy, and presence, worshiping and serving Him, and growing in His Word.

It’s not boring or unproductive; it’s what fulfills our purpose and destiny. We might think we need to find our own rest, but true rest is found in Him.

God offers us rest – His salvation and presence. He warns against missing it, teaches us to enter through faith, and invites us to experience the peace and joy of resting in Him. Embrace His offer and enter His rest.