Are We Willing to Suffer for Others and Christ?

"So please don't despair because of what they are doing to me here. It is for you that I am suffering, so you should feel honored and encouraged." Ephesians 3:13

We know his story. We know what his life was like before the Lord called him to be His instrument. He was a persecutor of Christians. He went to many lengths to make sure anyone who followed Christ was chained and put to death.

But that was Saul on the other side of the cross. Today we know him as Paul who stands on this side of the cross. Paul went to great lengths to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So much that he experienced suffering of many kinds; beatings, thrown in jail, starved, etc.

Paul truly shared in the suffering of Christ. Just as the Lord said he would, "For Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for me." Acts 9:15

In Paul's letter to the Church of Ephesus he tells them to not despair because of what is happening to him. He is suffering for them, so that they can know about Jesus.

I find this to be so moving, so humbling, so powerful. Paul suffered so others could know Christ. Missionaries today put themselves out there to endure suffering so that others can know Christ. Many believers around the world endure suffering for Christ today.

I am encouraged by this. I am moved by this. I am thankful and honored to have such amazing brothers and sisters around the world who will stand for Christ and share His name with others no matter the suffering that comes.

Am I willing to do the same for others and Christ?

Jesus thank You for those who suffer so that others can know You. Thank You for their great faith. I pray many come to know You because of their commitment and love to You. Use me Father to share Your Word and love to others. Forgive me if I hid in fear afraid of suffering for You. You did it for me and for that I am grateful, honored and blessed. Thank You! Amen