12: Of course, normally, suffering does not bring joy on any account. But suffering for the cause of Christ should indeed bring a very great measure of joy and gladness to one’s heart. Suffering for Christ stands as evidence of the true nature of a person as a child of God. As Jesus has already said, such persons will see Almighty God, be called his children, and live in his kingdom for eternity. Rewards will be given in that day that cannot possibly be fully appreciated at this time. They shall not be given on the basis of what is deserved, but on the basis of the grace of him who is giving. As Jesus says elsewhere, more will be given to those who already have much.
The prophets were persecuted for telling the truth about God. This is the focus, a true look at the God of all. Knowing him as he truly is gets at the heart of the Sermon on the Mount. It shows the law to be far more than a list of rules. It is to be a reflection of the character of the One who gave it. In fact, Jesus was about to let them all know that the law was not being followed strictly enough. This was because men had lost sight of a truthful reflection of the character of the Holy, Almighty God.
Daily Bible Reading: Nehemiah 11:1-12:47
Daily Memory Verse: Jude 1:1 “Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:”
Daily Tidbit: According to Ezra 2, there were some families that came back from the captivity who could not show proof of their lineage. The priests among these were not allowed to minister as they would have otherwise. They had to wait for the high priest to be able to determine the will of God with the Urim and Thummim. This has happened by the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. But, his people do not recognize him as such.
Praise Journal: Heavenly Father, thank You for the fact that we can rely upon you for our needs. Help us to trust You wholeheartedly. You have given us difficulties in our life to help remind us that we need You. Many, who feel that all their needs have been met, do not see their need of You. May we never be that way! Help us all to realize that we are so dependent upon You. Root out the self-sufficiency hiding in my heart. Give me a heart that leans upon You. O Father, Your provision is always what we need. You are perfectly aware of my every lack, and You already have a plan to fill me up to the brim with solutions. O Lord, we praise You for Your love for us! It is so precious. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.
Prayer Journal Highlights: Pray for a neighbor that is elderly and not feeling well. Pray for a neighbor who has cancer. Pray for an elderly couple with health problems. Pray for a missionary and his wife. Pray for a missionary who recently lost his brother. Pray for Wayside Baptist Church.
Personal Journal Entry #12150