Jesus Christ alerted his disciples to prepare for persecution from the anti-gospel people. They would suffer difficult situations for the sake of his name. However, the Savior promised to help his followers overcome their afflictions, and helped them finish their race well. The Savior said,
“They will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake.” “You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. And you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But not a hair of your head shall be lost” (Luke 21:12, 16-18).
Lesson:
All Christians are to endure persecutions and hold firm to their faith so that they can inherit imperishable rewards from God in heaven. The road to heaven may be rough, but it has a smooth end. Jesus Christ has promised us (believers) the strength needed to overcome challenges – and finish our race well (Luke 21:12, 16-18).
Any suffering that a Christian suffers on earth would be insignificant to compare with the blessing that he/she will receive from God in heaven. It is a worthwhile effort to remain steadfast in God since there shall be a countless joy to experience in heaven!
Prayer:
Dear God, please endow me with grace to remain steadfast with you unto the end. Let me endure any challenge that may come my way, and let me hold firm unto my faith so that I can be duly rewarded in heaven. Let me be counted worthy of your benefits in heaven. For in the name of Jesus Christ I make my requests. Amen.
