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Significant verse:
5:41
What does the verse say?
The apostles had been arrested, freed by an angel, arrested again,
threatened with death, beaten severely, and ordered not to speak in
Jesus' name any more. But the apostles left the high council's
inquiry REJOICING that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace
(and pain) for Jesus' name.
What is God saying to me?
What an unusual perspective: to view suffering disgrace as a
reason to feel honored--being worthy enough to be honored in that
way. Jesus said, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for my
name's sake." So the apostles rejoiced. They chose to feel
and express joy in their trial. Lord, I admit I struggle to see
difficulties or pain or trouble with this perspective at first
(sometimes ever). So I don't get to the place where I can
rejoice. Lord, renew my mind to think in right ways about all my
circumstances; to see my life and experiences the way you do, so I can
rejoice in every circumstance. Lord, I rejoice in this area in my
life where I am experiencing trouble.
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