Count It All Joy! · Tuesday, May 15th · Pastor Anita

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations (James 1:2).
Pastor AnitaThough you’re fully dedicated to the preaching of the Gospel and are making an impact for the Lord, you may find yourself facing fierce oppositions and persecutions. However, at such times, you must stand for what you believe. Some friends, relatives and loved ones may even spite and ridicule you; remain unperturbed and count it all joy!
In the book of Acts, we read of how the Apostles rejoiced to be scourged by the Jews for preaching the Gospel. They were threatened never to preach in the Name of Jesus (Acts 5:40), yet the Bible says "…they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name…" (Acts 5:41-42). This is so inspiring! It doesn’t matter who might be against you or the persecutions you might be facing today for preaching the Gospel; like the Apostles, count it all joy! 2 Timothy 3:12 says, "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."
Also, the Lord Jesus said in Mark 10:29-30, "...Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life." Persecution is part of the deal; Jesus promised we would have them. When you’re persecuted for the Gospel, rejoice, because the words of the Master are being fulfilled in you.
Continue in the faith and refuse to let your faith buckle in the face of adversity because you’re more than a conqueror. When you go through diverse tests and trials, rejoice and be exceedingly glad; for great is your reward in heaven.
Prayer
Dear Father, you’re the strength of my life, and in you I’ve found joy, fulfilment and peace. The tests, trials and adversities that come my way are bread for me because you’ve made me more than a conqueror, and my faith is the victory that overcomes the world, blessed be your Name.
f u r t h e r s t u d y: Matthew 5:11; Proverbs 24:10

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