The Call

After we accept Jesus as our Lord, our Savior, it's so easy to think that we'll be without suffering, pain, or struggle.  That God will give us all we want (notice I didn't say "need").

Jesus prepared his disciples for the trials of the world, and we should be prepared as well.  Without preparation, we could end up doubting God's love. 

The disciples may have thought that, with God on their side, no suffering would ever befall them.  Yet, Jesus said, "I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away.  They will put you out of the synagoges.  The hour is coming when whoever kills you will think that he is offering service to God (John 16:1-2).  If we are faithful witnesses to Jesus, we are promised (promised) that persecution will come (John 15:21).  In Hebrews, we have accounts of great victories - and great costs as the world would see it. 

What should our goal be, then?  To conserve and save our lives? 

As Christ-followers, we need to live our life in obedience.  We're not called to ignore risk or to be reckless, and we are called despite hardship.  In fact, refusing or ignoring God's call because of hardship would be a concept that the disciples would find hard to accept as part of obedience.

How is God calling you?
Where does He want you?  Where does He want you to go?
Who do you need to talk to about the saving grace of Jesus Christ?

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all!"  (1Corinthians 4:17)