Abide, Adore, Ask and Agree: 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting With Rock City ChurchSample

DAY 20

Without the cross, there is no resurrection. Jesus understood this. Hebrews 12:2 says, “For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Joy and the throne were on the other side of shame and the cross.

When Jesus calls people to follow Him, He doesn’t say, “Give me your sin and then go on your own way.” To follow means we go His way, which is the cross and resurrection. The pain of death precedes the power of new life. Laying down what holds earthly value for the cause of Christ is what allows one to pick up an eternal inheritance.

No one has ever or will ever experience greater pain on earth than the One who now occupies the throne of heaven. This should give the church great hope when faced with opposition or persecution. The King of Heaven is intimately acquainted with our pain and suffering, and He strengthens us to endure for the hope and joy that is on the other side.

REFLECTION

1. What’s the greatest price you’ve had to pay for following Jesus?

2. Read Hebrews 13:3 and ask the Lord for wisdom in how to live out this verse.

PRAYER FOCUS

Pray for the persecuted church.