Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 1 Peter 3:13-14
“When Christ was in the world, He was despised by men; in the hour of need He was forsaken by acquaintances and left by friends to the depths of scorn. He was willing to suffer and to be despised; do you dare to complain of anything? He had enemies and defamers; do you want everyone to be your friend, your benefactor? How can your patience be rewarded if no adversity test it? How can you be a friend of Christ if you are not willing to suffer any hardship? Suffer with Christ and for Christ if you wish to reign with Him.”
Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471) in The Imitation of Christ (Grand Rapids, CCEL), p. 42-43.
I have completed my sabbatical.
I am back to work today. The highlight of my sabbatical was serving the persecuted church in China and Pakistan and seeing the power of the gospel draw people to choose to follow Jesus.
Notice the words of Peter.
“Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” Wherever you are today, focus on living, giving, serving, and loving generously. No one can harm you because nothing can touch one eager to do good.
But even if you do suffer, you are blessed.
Too often we complain in hard times. The persecuted church has taught me to persevere and trust that I will someday reign with Christ.