The Meaning Of Following Christ Keluarga Allah Daily Devotional September 03, 2017
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THE SOUL Acts 20:16-24
TODAY'S RHEMA Acts 20:24 "But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God."
In the middle of millennium centuries, Polycarpus was the Priest of the church in Smyrna and one of the last apostles of the early Church. At that time, persecution began to happen at Smyrna. Polycarpus was hidden by his friends in a village but Roman soldiers found him at last. On their way to Smyrna, the leader of the troop tried to make him deny Jesus, but Polycarpus kept his mouth shut. He was forced to deny Jesus before the Roman Governor as well but he remained silent. He even tried to share the gospel to the Governor who judge him. However, in the end, he was burnt alive. While he was tied to a pillar, Polycarpus prayed and praise God's greatness loudly. When the fire was ignited, according to what was written and some witnesses, his body was not burnt at all. At that time, they even smelled expensive incense and spices. He died when the executor stabbed him with a sword. The martyr story of Polycarpus inspired and strengthen many up to this day.
When we stay in a comfort zone, no intimidation and all things go well even standing up for your belief isn't a problem, following Jesus seems to be an easy path. But when there is a challenge in front of you, a testing to your faith, will you still carry the cross to the end like Polycarpus or the other way around, deny Him?
It is true that following Jesus is not making our lives easier. But believe that every sorrow we face can never be compared to the eternal life that we will receive later. Our choices will determine what we will receive in eternity. As long as we live in this world, following Jesus means ready to lift up the cross and serve Him no matter what is happened. Jesus Bless You.
REFLECTION Saudara Terkasih, FOLLOWING JESUS means READY TO SUFFER TO TAKE UP THE CROSS FOR HIM and SERVE HIM NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS.
APPLICATION 1. What will you do when there is the challenge of your faith? 2. According to you, what does it means following Jesus? Are you ready to take up the cross for Him? 3. How can you strengthen your commitment to Jesus?
TODAY'S PRAYER "Father, give me the power to always follow You, whatever I face in life. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen."
YEARLY BIBLE READING
Genesis 46-47
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