Matthew 10

In this chapter Jesus sends out the 12 disciples.  He gives them instructions, advice, warnings and basically prepares them for the ministry he calls them into.  This is an excellent chapter for those of us who are called by God into his harvest (we all are).

Take time to read this chapter.

Here's one truth from the chapter I want to share with you:

Verses 24 and 25 "A student is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master.  It is enough for the student to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master.  If the head of the house has been called Beelzebub, how much more the members of his household!"

If we truly follow Jesus we will get what he got.  If Jesus is called Beelzebub (the prince of demons), we will too.  People hate Jesus and they will hate us.  People persecuted Jesus and they will persecute us. People rejected Jesus and they will reject us.

This is sobering.  Life as a Christian is not a cake-walk, so don't tell people it will be and don't tell yourself it will be.  Is the life of a Christian awesome?  Yes.  Is it easy?  No.  But it is worth it.

Remember, when people persecute us for being Christians they are not persecuting us, really, they are persecuting Christ (read Acts 9:4 to prove this).  So don't be offended by people hating you.  Rather, weep for them because they are rejecting the one who loves them and can save them.  That is sad stuff.  You wouldn't be mad at them if you thought of it that way... would you?

Again, the juice is worth the squeeze.  Verse 28, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell."

Jesus is worth it because the consequences of not being persecuted is hell and the consequences of being persecuted is heavenly rewards.

So take heart.  It is worth it.  Live boldly for Jesus today.

P.S.  Slightly different subject but ask yourself this:  "Who would I die for?"  This may seem morbid, but make a list.  I believe the longer and richer this list is the better your life is.