meditations for an everyday relationship with Jesus

Do not be ashamed

2Titus 1:8-10 So don't be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, or of me His prisoner. Instead, share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. This has now been made evident through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Don’t be ashamed of Jesus, and the foolishness of the cross, even though you will one day be met with skepticism, harsh criticism or even outright hatred!. Paul tells Titus in a second letter that he (and we) should share in suffering for the “good news.” What good is the good news if it means nothing and motivates no one?

Why should we share in suffering? Because in our suffering we might actually feel something beyond self.

“Go to the mat” for what you believe in; of what value is a life untested or a belief unapplied? Remember that death has been abolished!

Swift and sure is best

Ecclesiastes 8:11-13 Because the sentence against a criminal act is not carried out quickly, therefore the heart of people is filled [with the desire] to commit crime. Although a sinner commits crime a hundred times and prolongs his life, yet I also know that it will go well with God-fearing people, for they are reverent before Him. However, it will not go well with the wicked, and they will not lengthen their days like a shadow, for they are not reverent before God.

No matter what goes on around us; no matter how many times a criminal gets away with violating the law; or if a sentence is not carried out quickly enough to satisfy our righteous indignation, ...we must do good and believe in a God that is measuring twice and cutting once.