To Be Least

     Jesus states in Matthew 5:11 that, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me." This idea was displayed by the apostles actions in Acts 5:41, "The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name."

In the book of James the issue of how to respond to "trials" is discussed.

2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1)

     This passage restates the idea of being joyful and glad when you encounter trials and persecution for you faith. As it clearly says these trials develop perseverance which "must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete."

     I have read many accounts of persecution of fellow brothers and sisters in Christ where despite all the persecution they experience for their faith in Christ they are firm in their faith. Through out all the trials they grow in the Lord and in their walk with Him. I have concern for these Christians, but what even more concerns me is that fact that here in America Christians can grow lukewarm all too easily. Being a Christian becomes a habit, not a lifestyle.

God bless.