We may not live in a country that will flog you for being a Christian, but sometimes I think we act like we do.

Acts 5.12-42

Reference:  v. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. (NIV Bible)

Explore:  I don't handle pain very well.  I mean, I'm not a total sooky-sooky-la-la but I'd rather not endure any more pain than is necessary.  Although, compared to these early apostles I'm a baby!  They spent a night in prison and still went straight out proclaiming Jesus' name.  They were then flogged for this sort of teaching, so they 'rejoiced' because they felt it was an honor to suffer for Christ.

Application:  This really challenges our faith.  We may not live in a country that will flog you for being a Christian, but sometimes I think we act like we do.  We're too cautious and 'politically correct' to stand up for our glorious Saviour and confess Him as our Lord.  I think sometimes we need to take a page out of the early apostles' book and be courageous in our faith.  And even if that leads to persecution we must rejoice that we are worthy to suffer, just as Christ did.

Prayer:  Lord, you paid the ultimate penalty on the cross.  We pray that we may become stronger so that your story of love and grace may continue to be told.  Amen.