Rest in His Love

Pat Jones / Executive Pastor

My journey lately has led me to some interesting places. The Beloved study has once again overwhelmed my heart with the love of God and humbled me to think He does love me. I have also been a part of a project to write devotionals and prayer prompts covering the Gospel of John and the Gospel of Matthew.

In Matthew 10, Jesus speaks to the disciples about what they will be facing in the near future. Here is part of what I wrote:

The environment of our journey will be fraught with betrayal, hatred, and persecution. We will not be able to trust even the closest of human relationships. Yet we are reassured that standing firm in Christ will lead to our salvation (v. 22). He tells us to flee when persecution begins, but don’t fear. And to temper our concerns, He points to the reality that if they did these things to Him (our Teacher, our Master, and Head of our house), we can certainly expect they will do it to us (v. 24, 25).

Jesus’ warnings and encouragements were not for them only. I read His words with tears, wondering how they would be received today? A number of years ago I experienced the deep pain of betrayal and persecution. By God’s grace and the power of His Spirit, I was able to stand through the pain. I can tell you His assurance is real.

If you find yourself in such a circumstance, never fall prey to the lie that God does not care or has abandoned you. No, we should expect these things to happen because they did it to Him. Rest in His love and listen for His Spirit’s whispers. You will have all you need to stand.