In Spite Of

“If we suffer for Jesus because we love Him, we are not only happy in spite of the cross, but because of it.  For love rejoices at the privilege of suffering for the Well-beloved, and the cross which forms us into His image is a comforting bond of love.”  Francois Fenelon  Let Go

I have often wondered if I am capable of such faithfulness to and joy in God.  The apostles were in the first century.  “and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.  Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.  And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.”  Acts 5:40-42  They were beaten and rejoiced to suffer dishonor for Christ’s name.  I am ever amazed by this verse and Godly character!
kenny