Do you ever feel like
throwing the towel in
on
following Jesus?
I know it is horrible to say,
but at times it isn't so fun,
even though we have been warned~
"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you." (I Peter 4:14)
and even though we
"know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
Let perseverance finish its work
so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything"(James 1:3-4)
But it is still so very hard.
But Jesus told us at the very beginning~
"If anyone wishes to come after Me,
he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.
For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it;
but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." (Matthew 16:24-25)
The Cost of Discipleship.
The Cost of Following Jesus
may be hard at times,
But
it is so worth it because
He told us~
"Friends, when life gets really difficult,
don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job.
Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced.
This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.
If you’re abused because of Christ, count yourself fortunate.
It’s the Spirit of God and His glory in you that brought you to the notice of others.
If they’re on you because you broke the law or disturbed the peace, that’s a different matter.
But if it’s because you’re a Christian, don’t give it a second thought.
Be proud of the distinguished status reflected in that name!
It’s judgment time for God’s own family.
We’re first in line.
If it starts with us, think what it’s going to be like for those who refuse God’s Message!
If good people barely make it, What’s in store for the bad?
So if you find life difficult because you’re doing what God said, take it in stride.
Trust Him.
He knows what he’s doing, and
He’ll keep on doing it." (I Peter 4:12-19)
Therefore,
when we are ready to
throw the towel in
God does not allow it
and keeps us going
as we~
"Be joyful always.
Pray Continuously.
Give thanks in all circumstances,
for this is God's will for you
in
Christ Jesus"
I Thessalonians 5:16-18