We Will See His Glory

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Rom 8:18 KJV)

Time are rough for a lot of people. But, looking back at history, there have been times that were a lot worse. Who; but God, can tell what the future has in store for this world? The future may be even worse. It might also be better. No matter what our circumstances are right now those who know Jesus know that they will get better. They will be absolutely awesome when the glory of God is revealed in its fullness for all the world to see. 

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (1 Pet 4:12-13)

Rejoice and be glad that the Lord, our God, has a plan. It is a good plan. Remember, also, that included in that good plan was the death of his only begotten Son for us. That Son told us "..., If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." (Luke 9:23)

During WW II, Lutheran Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who was a part of the resistance and ultimately died for his actions against the Reich wrote in the "Cost of Discipleship:" “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.”

Life on earth is not always going to be easy. There will be many trials and tribulations. But, we a called to stand on the truth, following in the footsteps of Jesus no matter how hard it may get. Life on earth may not be easy; but, we have hope as we look for the glory of God to be revealed in its fullness!

God's Peace - Pr. J.

Mind Not Your Own High Things

Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. (Rom 12:16 KJV)

I was listening to Jordan Peterson on YouTube again last night. He was saying  (and I am paraphrasing) that it is difficult for him to profess that he is a Christian publicly because he understands that to be a Christian means that we are called to something very difficult. 

Essentially we are called to make a lot of changes in our lives. We are called to put God and His will above all things. We are called to serve others, even before ourselves. 

One of my daily disappointments is to hear professed Christians talk about their personal goals. I do not hear about what God has called them to be or do; but, what they desire for themselves. Of course, this is not everyone. I also know some very faithful Christians. But, one or two a day is enough to cause me to wonder about the real state of Christianity.

To seriously desire to follow Jesus and to desire to do God's will even above our own will is really tough! I read again this morning of another execution of Christians. A Pastor and five members of his congregation in Burkina Faso were killed for their faith.  He was unwilling to leave the village he had been serving even though he knew his life was in danger from Islamic Terrorists. He chose to be faithful to God's will that he minister to the people of the village even in the face of death.

And... so, I get a bit disillusioned and disheartened when I hear of professed Christians who cannot set aside their own egos and wills in order to serve those whom God calls us to serve.

"When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die." Dietrich Bonhoeffer

God's Peace - Pr. J