Wednesday, December 2, 2009

A Difficult Response

Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. Acts 8:4

Their homes had been destroyed or confiscated. Their friends had been captured, mutilated, or killed. Havoc seared the streets of Jerusalem. Thousands fled. Though they were displaced and had little to nothing of material possessions, they had the most priceless of treasures within their hearts—the knowledge that Messiah had come. Instead of burrowing within their sorrows, they praised God and preached the Good News to others. No wonder people listened. For what power made these people rejoice in their losses?

I wonder how I respond in difficult circumstances. Would anyone ask, “What gives you the grace to endure?” Would I rejoice in the opportunities my misfortune provides to exalt his name?

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