Acts 5:41
“Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.”
This is amazing as we think of the backs of the apostles that were beaten and whipped. This is an example of the paradox of the follower of Jesus. The way up is down, to lose is to gain, the strong are weak, to receive grace is to be humble. It is strange to those who are on the outside watching. They were honored to be dishonored, FOR HIS NAME! We are followers of Jesus, and we follow Him in suffering, and rejoice in it. That seems crazy to this world, but makes perfect sense to those waiting for another world.
If you are not suffering
In serving
You might not be serving
Jesus, but
Yourself
Not all serving is suffering, but all suffering for Jesus, serves Jesus. Followers of Jesus that do not understand this will be caught of guard at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you, but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice. Father God, thank You for the opportunity to serve along side of You, and suffer in Your name. Help me to see the out of this world, and waiting for another world perspective and to keep rejoicing in all circumstances. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
ACTION: See Jesus, and rejoice