Exhortations To Follow Christ

 Hebrews 12:2-3  

"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for 

the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the

shame and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  

For consider him that endured such contradiction of 

sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied

and faint in your minds." 

  

   The obedience of faith in Christ, is the race set before us, we will enter with a crown of glory, or have everlasting misery for our reward.  By sin that so easily troubles us, and understand that the sin to which we are most prone, or to which we are most exposed, to from habit, age, or circumstances. This is a most important exhortation; because a man's favorite sin, be it what it is, if it remains unsubdued, it will hinder us from running the Christian race, as it takes from us every motive for running, and gives power to every discouragement.  

   When weary and faint in our minds, let us recollect that Jesus suffered, to save us from eternal misery. By steadfastly looking to Jesus, our thoughts will strengthen holy affections, and keep our mind on holy desires. Though our enemies and persecutors may be instruments to inflict sufferings, yet they are Divine chastisements;Our Heavenly Father has His hand in all, and His wise end to answer by all. We must not make light of afflictions, and be without feeling under them, for they are the hand and rod of God, and are His rebukes for sin. 

   We must not faint and sink under trials, or fret and pine, but bear up with faith and patience. God may let others alone in their sins, but He will correct sin in His own children. In this His acts  becomes as a father. Our earthly parents sometimes may chasten us, to gratify their passion, rather than to reform our manners. But the Father of our souls never willingly grieves or afflicts His children. It is always for our profit. Our whole life here is a state of childhood, and imperfect as to spiritual things; therefore we must submit to the discipline of such a state. 

   My Friends,  When we come to a perfect state, we shall be fully reconciled to all God's chastisement of us now. God's correction is not condemnation; the chastening may be born with patience, and greatly promote holiness. Let us then learn to consider the afflictions brought on us by the malice of men, as corrections sent by our wise and gracious Father, for our spiritual good.  

Amen!

Reading: Heb. 12:1-11

Ref: HGSB

May God Bless You

And Your Family

Minister Robert A. Lail Sr.

The Cross Life Ministry