LENT--DAY 14
SCRIPTURE
Revelation 2:8-11 (NRSV)
"And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of the first and the last, who was dead and came to life:
"I know your affliction and your poverty, even though you are rich. I know the slander on the part of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Beware, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison so that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have affliction. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches. Whoever conquers will not be harmed by the second death.
DEVOTION
Today we are reminded of the importance of enduring to the end.
Oftentimes when we are facing trials or tribulations we want to give up, turn back, or throw in the towel. We often let the unkindness of others cause us to want to give up on God's plan for our lives.
God says in the book of Revelation, "Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life."
We must learn to be unashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ! We must be willing to stand--and then keep standing--for Jesus even when it inconveniences us or causes us hardship. We must never "sit down" on the good news because our love for Jesus makes someone else uncomfortable. Finally, depending on where we live or work, we may have to be willing to suffer for the gospel as well.
If you--or someone you love--has ever been attacked because of their desire to love and serve God more fully do not lose heart! God sees and knows all things and has a good plan for your life.
Continue to love God and neighbor with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. Continue to walk in humility and gentleness, never giving up on the good news that Jesus saves and He saves to the utmost!
Remember, NO-thing is over until GOD says its over!
Endure, my friends...
Please pray with me:
Holy One thank you that s/he who endures to the end will receive the crown of life. Please forgive me for those times that I have given up in the face of adversity. Please fill me with the Holy Spirit so that I will persevere in hardship trusting that you will orchestrate my circumstances such that my story ends, "And s/he lived happily ever after..." In Jesus' Name, Amen.
INVITATION
ANNOUNCEMENT
During the Lenten Season, all Good News readers are challenged to forward this blog to one person each and every day! Read, share, and BE good news! Go in peace, serve the Lord! (Thanks be to God!)
No comments:
Post a Comment