Acts 14:22
They strengthened the spirits of the disciples and exhorted them to persevere in the faith, saying, “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.”

Paul and Barnabus were rallying the followers of Jesus in the aftermath of His death and resurrection. It was not easy to be a follower of Christ. Paul had literally been stoned earlier but somehow survived. Just because you are following Jesus does not mean an easy path as Jesus had warned that His followers would be persecuted. But following Christ is the path that leads to life. It means walking with my cross like He did. It means going through the struggles of life with Christ as my companion. It is the path of dying to myself…my false, ego-centered self, so that my true self can rise. Jesus showed us the path that leads to growth, transformation, wholeness and becoming our true selves. It’s the process where you begin to experience the kingdom of God. Surrender your control to God…let Christ lead you…and amazing, life-giving things will happen.

Suggested song of the day—“I Want to Follow You” on the Listen to Your Heart album.
All songs available on iTunes. Click on the link under blogroll to the right.
CDs available by clicking on “home” then the “store” tab.
Have a blessed day!