Acts 5 - rejoice!

"rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name." (Acts 5:41)

The Christian life should be filled with joy. That is what sets us apart from people of the world.

Does that mean a Christian would never suffer? Or that he/she should never tear?

No, the Bible did not say that a person, after believing in Jesus, will never meet with difficulties or sorrow. In fact, the Bible promises that Jesus will wipe away every tear from our eyes and we would tear no more when He comes again. That shows that in this life, we will still meet with things that will break our heart.

However, it is what we do during times of sorrow that separates us from people of the world. Do we wallow in self-pity or do we look unto Jesus?

The apostles had their eyes fixed on Jesus.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Do we see that joy that is set before us too?

The joy of being prince with Him in heaven, after we have suffered a little while (1 Peter 1:6), and to enjoy eternity with Him.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. (1 Peter 5:10)

If we are able to look beyond the here and now (though we may be suffering or persecuted), and see the joy that is awaiting us just ahead, we would be able to endure and rejoice in any circumstances.

Moreover, Jesus has been there, done that.

It doesn't hurt as much as what He went through for me.

These words never fails to comfort me in times of pain, and, in a way, lift up my spirits because I remember how much He loves me.

Whatever I might be facing, what is this, compared to what He had went through for me?

So I will say, "算了！"

:)