VERSE OF THE DAY FOR AUGUST 17, 2020

Image credit: www.pktfuel.com

Bible Passage for meditation and memorization is James 1: 2-3

 My Brethren count it all joy when you go through various trials  knowing that the testing  of your faith produces patience (NKJV) Read here

Thoughts on Today's Verse

This verse is a tough nut for many believers to crack. We always have this mindset of having a good and rossy life once  we come to Christ, but brother James has this bitter truth to share. Coming to Christ is not all rossy. In fact, Jesus said, "if you must come with me, you must first deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me". True believers know that suffering is an inseparable part of our journey of faith. We must deny ourselves and also be denied by others of our needs, our rights, our entitlements and benefits for the sake of Christ. The beauty of it all is that,  it is the only road to our glorification. No cross; no crown. "For if we died with him, we will also live with him. If  we endure, we shall also reign with him, if we deny him, he  also will deny us (2Timothy 2:12). Hebrews 5:8, "though he (Jesus)  was a son, yet he learned obedience by the things which he suffered". And then..."God elevated him by giving Him a name that is above every other name" (Phillipians 2:9). Are your passing through trials, persecutions and temptations? Take heart for weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning (Psalms 30:5) Trials are like tests; without passing them you may not be promoted to the next level.

PRAYER: Father thank you for making me your child. You set Jesus as an example and allowed him to suffer before he could be glorified. Grant me the grace to persevere in sufferings and hardship for the sake of christ with the right mindset. Trusting completely that you'll see me through, in Jesus name I pray. Amen.