THE HOUR OF UNUSUAL THREAT
Quote for Today
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.”
- Mark Twain
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WORD FROM THE HOLY BIBLE FOR TODAY
1 Peter 4:14
“If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”
REFLECTION
REST IN THE FINAL HOUR
“Many Christians in the world today do not know the life-threatening danger that comes with believing in Christ. We have gotten used to being free from such persecution. It seems like the way things must be.
So, our first reaction to the threat that things might be otherwise is often anger. But that anger may be a sign that we have lost our sense of being sojourners and exiles (“Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles . . .” 1 Peter 2:11).
Perhaps we have settled too much into this world. We don’t feel as homesick for Christ as Paul did: “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).
Many of us need the reminder, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you” (1 Peter 4:12). It isn’t strange.
Have you ever wondered how you will do in the hour of final trial? The gunman has you in his sights and asks, “Are you a Christian?” Here is a strong word to give you hope that you may do better than you think.
Peter says, “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you” (1 Peter 4:14). This encouragement from Peter says that in the hour of unusual threat (whether insult or death) there will be “a Spirit of glory and of God resting on us.” Doesn’t that mean that God gives special help in the hour of crisis to those who suffer because they are Christians?
I don’t mean he is absent from our other sufferings. I just mean that Peter went out of his way to say that those who suffer “for the name of Christ” will experience a special “resting” on them of “the Spirit of glory and of God.”
Pray that this would be your experience when the trial comes. There will be resources of endurance in that moment that we do not have any other time. Take heart.”
- By John Piper. © Desiring God Foundation.
THE HOUR OF UNUSUAL THREAT
REST IN THE FINAL HOUR
1 Peter 4:14 reminds us that suffering for Christ is not a cause for despair but a sign of blessing, as God's presence and Spirit rest upon us. Here are five key responses we should reflect on and apply to our walk with Jesus when facing persecution or opposition for our faith: 1. Rejoice in Suffering for Christ Instead of being discouraged, we should find joy in knowing that suffering for Jesus aligns us with Him. He, too, was mocked and rejected, and when we share in His suffering, we share in His glory (Matthew 5:11-12, Philippians 3:10). 2. Stand Firm in Faith Persecution is a test of our faith. We must remain steadfast, not compromising our beliefs for acceptance or comfort. Clinging to God’s Word and prayer will strengthen us in times of trial (Ephesians 6:10-11). 3. Respond with Love and Grace Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). Instead of retaliating in anger, we should show Christ’s love through our words and actions, reflecting His heart even in suffering. 4. Trust in God’s Presence and Strength The verse assures us that when we are insulted for Christ’s name, the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon us. We are never alone—God’s presence is with us, strengthening, comforting, and guiding us (Isaiah 41:10). 5. Keep an Eternal Perspective Earthly suffering is temporary, but the reward in eternity is far greater. When we face rejection or opposition, we should fix our eyes on the eternal glory that awaits us, knowing that faithfulness to Jesus is worth it (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).
Neven MacEwan
Heavenly Father, I come before You in humble surrender, acknowledging that without You, I am weak, but with You, I am strong. Lord, I know that following Jesus will bring opposition, yet I declare today that I will not be shaken. Fill me with Your strength, courage, and power, that I may stand firm in my faith no matter what comes my way. Father, help me to rejoice in suffering for Christ. When I am mocked, rejected, or insulted for His name, remind me that I am sharing in His sufferings and that this is a sign of blessing. Give me a heart that finds joy in knowing I am counted worthy to suffer for the One who gave everything for me. Let me never be ashamed of Jesus but rejoice in being called His disciple. Lord, give me the boldness to stand firm in my faith. When the world pressures me to compromise, let me be unshaken, rooted in Your truth. Strengthen my spirit so that I will not waver, even when it is difficult. Fill me with Your Word, that I may hold fast to Your promises and never be afraid to proclaim Your name. God, teach me to respond with love and grace. When others insult me, let my words reflect the kindness and wisdom of Christ. Give me a heart that forgives, hands that serve, and lips that speak truth in love. Let my life be a testimony to those who oppose me, that they may see Jesus through me. Holy Spirit, rest upon me and fill me with Your power. Your Word says that when I suffer for Christ, Your Spirit of glory is upon me. Let me walk in that power, knowing I am never alone. Strengthen me when I feel weak, comfort me when I feel weary, and embolden me when I feel afraid. Father, help me to keep my eyes on eternity. Remind me that the trials of this world are temporary, but my reward in heaven is eternal. Let me live with the perspective that suffering for Christ is an honor, knowing that one day, I will stand before You and hear, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." Lord, I give myself completely to You. Strengthen me, equip me, and use me for Your glory. May my life be a bold and unwavering witness for Jesus, no matter the cost. In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
Neven MacEwan
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