When You Are Considered Worthy To Suffer Shame For God’s Name
So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name.
Acts 5:41, NASB
The apostles of Jesus were interrogated before the council and high priest because they kept on sharing the word of God despite their warnings. Their faith was questioned, and their lives were threatened. But the most amazing part was they didn’t feel any disappointments or frustrations. Instead, they rejoiced with what they experienced. Because for them, it’s a great honor to be considered as worthy to suffer for Jesus. They took it as a privilege to go through difficulties for His name’s sake.
The apostles didn’t focus on the negative things that happened to them. They didn’t even question God for allowing them to go through those life-threatening interrogations. Instead, they rejoice. Their reactions were exactly the opposite of how we usually react the moment we experience difficulties or detours in life. That’s why, it’s a perfect reminder for us to stay grateful to God despite the things we experienced.
According to the apostles, it’s an honor to suffer shame for Jesus. Perhaps they realized what Jesus did for them and that even thinking of their selfish desires was no longer part of their being. They fully surrendered their lives to Him, and they are willing to carry the shame just like what Jesus did. It’s a great privilege to suffer for God because it’s like His invitation to connect to His heart. The more you take part in His suffering, the more you realize how much He loves you.
When you choose to go through the journey with Him, especially in the midst of pain, that’s when you will discover who you truly are in His eyes. It’s an honor because behind the suffering are blessings that you can never comprehend. Your faith will grow. Your relationship with Him will be strengthened. And you will discover more of His heart.
If God gave you the chance to suffer for His glory, then rejoice just like what the apostles did. He simply gave you the chance to experience more of Him. God is inviting you to know His heart. He wants you to discover what it truly means to be with Him. Treat it as an honor and a great privilege. Suffering for Jesus is something that you can only experience here on earth. When you go to heaven, there will be no pain. So make the most of it. Embrace the suffering like a gift that will lead you to Jesus.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the blessings that you poured out in my life, including the unexpected pain and suffering that you allowed me to experience. Please remind me, Lord, that it’s a great honor to suffer for your name. Teach me to rejoice and focus on the purpose that you planted in my heart. Teach me how to love and glorify your name. This I ask, In Jesus’ name, amen.
