No Cake Walk

"Today's Devotion" For September 14, 2005

Read: Matthew 10:17-23; Acts 25:23-26:32

NO CAKE WALK

"On My account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles...At that time you will be given what to say..." (Mt. 10:18, 19b)

If there was ever a time that you may have thought that being a Christian was going to be a "cake walk", then this section of Matthew ought to disavow you of that misperception. Being a disciple of Jesus Christ, and thus a "fisher of men", is not an easy road. Jesus tells the Twelve that they must remember Who is sending them, and expect to be treated as He would be treated.

As we go about living for Jesus in this world we can expect exactly what Jesus told the Twelve they would experience. There's probably no greater hindrance in human relationships than what is brought about by being a disciple of Jesus Christ in the midst of people who want nothing to do with Him. Just as was true of the Apostles, so also is it true for us. As Jesus experienced persecution, betrayal, and hatred, so should we expect the same as His disciples. As we face the world today as Christians, walking as disciples of Jesus Christ - "fishers of men" - we realize that as those faithful to Christ, we aren't terribly well received, sometimes even by our own government.

But persecution, betrayal and hatred can't stop us, just as it didn't stop the Apostles. These hardships will present us with opportunities to be Jesus' witnesses. We don't need to question our ability to be good witnesses or be afraid to share His love. We stand on His promises to send His Spirit Who will give us the words, the strength, and the courage to speak for Him. It's true that our witness may even sever some family ties. Nevertheless, we are assured by our Savior and Lord that we will be strengthened to be faithful and endure to the end. Jesus assures us that He will never leave us and He will return to take us to Himself. So take heart and witness boldly to the forgiveness of sins and hope of heaven that you have in Him.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You have called me to be a disciple who "fishes for men" each day of my life. You have called me to be a witness to others of Your love and forgiveness, even under the most trying of conditions. Help me to be faithful in my witness for You, and lead me to trust Your Spirit to give me the courage, strength, and words to say that will make a difference in the lives of others. Hear me, O Lord Jesus. Amen.
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--Pastor Boeck

Copyright @2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.