Don't give up

12-11-22

As we prepare to celebrate Jesus' birth and wait for his Second Coming, my devotion for today is based on James 5:7,8: “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits patiently for the land to yield its valuable crop for the autumn and spring rains. You, too, be patient and stand firm because the Lord’s coming is near.”
Christians of all generations have suffered for their faith in one way or another. It’s hard. It’s not fun. It challenges our patience and willingness to stand firm and stay true to Christ. To the outsider, it may make Christianity unattractive.
Yet here’s the perspective we cannot forget. The Lord is coming back and will restore and reward all those who have clung to Jesus in faith for the forgiveness of their sins. The blessing of heaven will far outweigh our challenges in this life because of our faith.  Don’t give up. The Lord will return. Know that you will be blessed as you have persevered!
Please pray with me, Lord Jesus, you were delivered for our offenses and raised again for our justification.  Empower your Word with power, strengthen our faith, and after the sufferings of this life grant us to celebrate your Second Coming when you come to take us home with you.  In your blessed name, I pray.  Amen.