Philippians 1:29-30

For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. -Philippians 1:29-30

Dear Jesus,

This is a hard saying, but I know it’s true.  You have chosen me to be saved and at the very same time you have chosen me to be an example to others of self-sacrificing love.  It will mean suffering, at times, because my goal is to be a light that blinds the enemies of the cross and that makes them try to extinguish it.  It will mean suffering because forgiveness will make me stay in a relationship with repeat offenders even though they break my heart.  It will mean that I live with family and friends with grace instead of criticism.  It will mean the release valve of gossip is taken away.  It will mean that I must swallow my pride and end my pursuit of self- justification.  Oh Jesus, help me suffer for the great cause of love and truth for the salvation of others. 

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

When we suffer for our faith, we enter the holy land of the Holy Spirit.