How do you feel after reading that passage? Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t enter us into a popularity club with lots of perks. We’re likely to face a lot of persecution. We’re likely to stumble and fall. But the final reward, a life forever with Jesus, is the best thing possible. We’re called to persevere.
Focus on what Jesus has made possible for us. We can enter into God’s presence whenever we want. We can experience an audience with God like many before us never could. “Let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him.” We can do that only because of Jesus. It’s incredible when we fully grasp the privilege we have.
The preacher knows the struggles, too. After telling us to hold tight to our hope in Christ, he gives us a helpful tip in verse 24, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” What have you done lately to motivate or encourage other believers? Our acts of love and good works won’t earn us a place in heaven, but they do set us apart here on earth. I think of the song, “They’ll Know We are Christians by Our Love.”
We’ve been warned about the temptation, the sinful tendencies, and the persecution we may face. What can we do while we wait for Jesus and find ourselves suffering for our faith? Verse 36 says, “Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.” Patience is one of those elusive qualities that seems like it should be a no-brainer, until it’s not.
I saw a meme recently that said when we pray for patience, God gives us something to be patient about. How else will we learn and grow in the patience department if we never “practice” being patient? Red lights along my drive to work used to be my way to practice patience since I don’t wait very well. When I started using them as pop-up prayer opportunities, my outlook changed.
Have you ever found yourself rejoicing in your suffering? I’ve tried to be more mindful of it, finding a praise song or something if I’m really stuck. We need to remember we must be doing something right if the evil one is so intent on bringing us down or putting obstacles in our path. I look at the easy lives some people live, but then I realize that they are not followers. The evil one doesn’t have to interfere in their lives. Their enjoyment is fleeting and will not last forever.
We have that glorious inheritance with Jesus because of what our Lord Jesus endured. He suffered far more than we can ever imagine. We might ask: “Who am I to feel sorry for myself for the adversities I face?” Jesus not only understands, but he stands by to accompany us in our own suffering.
It’s good to be aware of the dangers and snares of life that can derail us, cause us to sin, and separate us from God. It breaks my heart to think how many people have “trampled on the Son of God,” as the preacher says. We want to see Jesus lifted high. Take time today to treasure your relationship with God.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, thank you for your mercy and love. May I remain close to you, faithful to do your will. I know that troubles attack from every angle. Protect me and deliver me through those dark times. Help me always keep my gaze on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
