There are no adequate words to fully express my gratitude for what Christ did for me/us. So I give Him my heart and express my love to Him in any way I can, every single day. Am I perfect? Absolutely not – not even close. That’s why I’m so thankful for what He did for me. We don’t deserve what Jesus did on the cross, but that didn’t stop Him.
I pray God would help me to show that same kind of love He’s shown me, to those that are unkind and hateful. When they go low, I pray that we would go high. I pray he would help us to bless those that curse us and pray for those that mistreat us. (Luke 6:28) I pray that God would give eyes to see and ears to hear.
We are currently living in time where evil is seen as good and good is seen as evil (Romans 1:20). Where false accusers and despisers of those that do good are in abundance. (2 Timothy 3:3) A season and world where people are ever learning, but never able to come to the knowledge of truth. (2 Timothy 3:7)
Although it’s sad and concerning that these things are happening, 2 Timothy 3:14-17 NLT also encourages believers for this time we are living in, saying;
“But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”
The world may try to paint an inaccurate picture of my character, as a believer, but I know who I am. I am a child of God. I will not cower to the bullies that revert to name calling and lies as their defence. I will continue to seek and speak truth and pray God helps me to deliver it in love (ephesians 4:15). I will never stop standing up for what is true, right and good, no matter how unpopular it becomes.
Jesus knows a lot about what it is like to be misunderstood and persecuted. At the end of HIs life on earth, He was mocked, tortured and ultimately died, for everyone (including the haters). He became a curse hanging on a tree for us. “A gruesome trophy for the unbelieving Romans and the blinded Pharisees, but a sight of pure love and beauty to us whom He’s saved” (Troy Brewer). Then he rose from the dead and ascended to heaven, where He sits at the right hand of of father God. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. His throne is the most important. It is above every single throne on earth and He is for US. So if He is for us, then who could be against us? (Romans 8:31)
So truth tellers, be encouraged, for Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10). Let us not forget, darkness hates the light (John 3:20), but light does not negotiate with darkness. Light always overcomes dark (John 1:5) Truth seekers: keep seeking and you will find it (Mathew 7:7).
I hope this word encourages you today, as it did me. We have so much to be thankful for! No matter what is happening in our world, it doesn’t surprise God. He is still on the throne and in control. We may not know what tomorrow holds, but we know the one that holds tomorrow. Have a wonderful and blessed day.
