To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world.  (1 Corinthians 4:11-13).

What comes first in your life?

Is it comfort? Peace?  Security? Respect?

Or is it Christ?

Trust me, Beloved–I’m asking this question directly into the mirror.

When I consider what Paul went through, what so many of Christ’s followers have gone through over the years and across the globe, I find myself wondering if perhaps I hold my salvation too lightly. Could I, would I, endure what they have endured for the sake of my Lord?

Seriously, I find it difficult to get up half an hour earlier so that I can pray.

Beloved, I’m not asking for trouble. I praise God for the innumerable ways he has blessed me. I just wonder, sometimes, if I have what it takes. 

And then I remember–of course I don’t.

And of course I do.

In my own strength, by my own will, I couldn’t endure a paper cut.

But in His strength? With his arms holding me up and shielding me and guiding me? That would be a different story.

I would read that story.

Happy Monday, Beloved