By: Juliet Constantine
“These things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to stumble.” (John 16:1 NKJV)
It was a sad occasion. Friends and loved ones were not permitted to grieve openly. Their friend, brother, spouse and father was executed for his faith in Jesus Christ. Should they display any form of emotion, they could be next.
This is nothing new in some parts of our modern, civilized world in the 21st Century. There are many in some cultures just like that man who have been and are being killed daily for the profession of their faith. More than 2000 years ago, Jesus, in encouraging His disciples, warned them that “the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service” (John 16:2). He spoke those words to them that they “should not be made to stumble.” He wanted them to be steadfast in their belief, and allowed nothing to cause them to waiver. Like so many of His words to His disciples, the encouragement is for us too; living so many years after.
Reflecting on the turn of events, we know that all His disciples were murdered, except John the Revelator whose punishment was even worse than those murdered. And sad to say, nothing has changed. God’s people are being called upon to defend their faith daily. Many are still doing so with their lives! But that’s okay. We were all forewarned. Jesus told us “that when the time comes, you may remember that I told you of them” (vs 4).
How have you been asked to defend your faith and belief in Jesus Christ? Was it through your job, your studies or relinquishing your faith? How did you respond? If you stood firm or not, how did it make you feel? Some pressures will seem really hard to bear; but remember that Jesus’ encouragement is not to stumble. Let them do what they will; but no matter what, we are to stand for God.
Take courage my brother, my sister. Let us band together and stand firm for God. We are assured that if we lose our lives for our belief in God, we will find it again in the New Earth. Whatever we have to give up for the cause of Christ, He has something better in store for us. Let nothing causes you to stumble or be dismayed. Let’s hold fast to our faith in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Our Father in Heaven, thank You that we can be partakers of Jesus’ suffering. We pray that You will keep us steadfast and free from stumbling. This is our prayer, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Copyrighted by Juliet Constantine 2014 (for “Alone With God – At His Feet” Daily Devotional)
