If following Jesus easy or hard? Yes! Its both. Most of us know that Jesus said “narrow is the way that leads to life, few there are that find it. And broad is the way that leads to destruction, many there are that go that way”. I have come to believe that following Jesus will require hard decisions and result in sacrifice, heartache, and trouble (tribulations). But, I can also declare that God has never been a debtor to me. Quite the opposite. The blessings that come from following the Savior and living as He commands are manifold. One byproduct is the priceless peace that I have knowing I have been made right with my Maker. So, however difficult it may be following God’s will and ways, it is certainly Worth It!
And after they had preached the gospel to that city and had made a good number of disciples, they returned to Lystra, to Iconium, and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, “It is through many tribulations that we must enter the kingdom of God.” When they had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they entrusted them to the Lord in whom they had believed. Acts 14:21-23 NASB
What difficulty, trial or tribulation is accompanying me on my journey this season? How will God show His love, might, and presence?
God, as this day begins- there are some significant issues for me to address. There are trials and tribulations for sure. I am inviting You to be as You have always been- very real and present, demonstrating Your love and affection. I ask for Your wisdom from above. Buoy me up by the indwelling Holy Spirit so that I might fulfill the ministry You’ve apportioned. Thank you that there are likeminded people on this journey. Amen. Lastly, I pause to pray for the health of my brother- strengthen him during his treatments and bring him to a cancer-free long life ahead.
