Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints.
Colossians 1:24-26
Lord Jesus, give me a mind today to embrace the reality that the hardships that I endure on this side of eternity due to my faith and trust in You is in truth a continuation of the suffering that You endured on my behalf. You said that in this world I would have trials and hardships, reminding me that if You were persecuted so too would I. I confess that I often shy away from said hardships, taking the easier road, a road trodden by those of us who want to live life conflict free. Yet, this morning my soul proclaims to live is Christ and to die is gain! Forgive me from shying away from the difficult conversations where people may look at me funny because I confess what I believe to be true concerning You. Forgive me for not taking a stand for those issues that are near and dear to You, that strike at the very heart of what it means to be a child of God, giving way to popular, secular thought. Forgive me for not being a prophetic voice in this wilderness, calling sin “sin” and holding individuals accountable for the actions they take that harm their fellow traveler. Grant me the boldness to stand today for what You stand for and to hold the gospel banner high. Give me the fortitude to let everyone who asks me know who I am and Whose I am, not shrinking down to their worldly level, but instead pointing them towards You, Who is the Giver of true life. In You and You alone is everything I need for life and godliness. What this world has to offer is counterfeit. I choose You this day. Give Your servant Holy Spirit inspired boldness that I might press on and press through to Your glory. Amen!