Christian Devotional – June 6, 2013

VERSE:

Acts 5:41–The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.

TRUTH:

First, the apostles rejoiced through the suffering and persecution they were facing. They considered it something to celebrate. Second, they considered suffering to be a determining factor of whether or not they were being worthy of the Christian life. Do we consider suffering and persecution to be the mark of a flourishing and effective Christian life? The apostles did. The people of this world do not understand our obedience to God and so if we are standing up and sharing the message of Jesus Christ, we will experience suffering and persecution.

RESPONSE:

Father, You are worth my complete dedication and obedience. I will recognize that suffering is a part of following You and I will see it as a badge of obedience and I will praise You through it.