Then Jesus said to them,"All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night,for it is written: 'I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' " But after I have raised, I will go before you to Galilee."
Mark 14:27-28
Don't let anyone tell you that being a Christian is easy.
Jesus here tells His disciples that their lives would be characterized by suffering and "scattering."
Being a Christian means that you are living a life that is completely different and opposite of the way the rest of the world thinks and lives their life.
So what does that lead to? You are an offense to the world around you. Putting your faith in Jesus Christ is contrary to everyone else's disposition of living for themselves.
And Jesus tells us that the world won't like it--or you.
The Bible is jam-packed with verses about why we suffer and how to get through it. Let me share with you just one.
Romans 8:18-39 is a wonderful summary of what it means to suffer as a Christian. Paul's point is this: suffering in your life now won't compare to the glory that awaits you.
Suffering is difficult, just like Jesus said, but knowing that this bit of suffering will result in a future glory of being with our Lord, face to face for a lifetime, makes it all worthwhile.
On the contrary, if we cave into our lusts, desires, and evil practices, and decide to live our lives apart from Jesus Christ, then the future "glory" looks awfully bleak.
So, what do you choose?
Suffering now just for a while, or suffering for eternity?
I choose to suffer now!
But here's the encouraging part. Read that last sentence above and let it really sink into your soul.Jesus says that after He is raised, He will go before us!You see, He doesn't leave us alone to suffer by ourselves.He is right there with us as we go through every event in our lives.
While suffering hurts and is very painful, He promises to come alongside of us, to teach us, to encourage us, and to help us get through it.
Our Lord is awesome! He loves you so much--enough to stay by your side when you are weary and troubled. He cares for you so much that He's willing to comfort you when you're in pain.
So while we suffer, take comfort in knowing that Jesus Christ is right there with you to guide and protect you.
And also remember the future glory that awaits!
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us".
(Romans 4:18)
