relationships (Matthew 10:26-33) True Courage

(Matthew 10:26-33)  [regarding those who persecute believers, because of Jesus]

26 “So do not fear them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 27 What I tell you in the darkness, tell in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim on the housetops. 28 And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are two sparrows not sold for an assarion? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. 30 But even the hairs of your head are all counted. 31 So do not fear; you are more valuable than a great number of sparrows.

32 “Therefore, everyone who confesses Me before people, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. 33 But whoever denies Me before people, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY

A young Christian man, who was being interviewed, was asked why so many young adults were flocking to the church.  His reply was, "It takes a great evil to move an entire generation of people towards the Lord."  It is very interesting that in times of upheaval and danger, unbelievers search for truth, purpose, peace, joy and the love of God.  Also just as interesting, in times of upheaval and danger, many people who consider themselves believers, will abandon their "faith".  The question becomes:  were those people truly believers in the first place?  

One cannot simply go through the motions, just saying and doing what is expected.  With sincere and humble hearts, a person will repent and confess their sins, and accept the forgiveness that Jesus offers, accepting Jesus into their hearts (souls).  Then, His indwelling Holy Spirit will literally change that person from the inside out.  It is in this that we are spiritually born again, becoming a legitimate child of God.  Our salvation and relationship with the Lord God is secured forever!  Therefore, no need to worry or fear!

Since God will never leave or forsake His children, it is up to us to strive in our relationship with Him.  BECAUSE it is a relationship of love, He asks that we to go to Him for everything, in all things.  No matter what is going on around us or happening to us, when we learn to continuously trust in, and fully depend on our heavenly Father, we can experience His strength, peace and joy, and exhibit His love, peace and joy to others with courage and boldness!