Tuesday, October 27, 2015

20151027 WORSE NAMES

WORSE NAMES

Matthew 10:24-25 "Students are not greater than their teacher, and slaves are not greater than their master.  (25)  Students are to be like their teacher, and slaves are to be like their master. And since I, the master of the household, have been called the prince of demons, the members of My household will be called by even worse names!

This makes me think of an old song titled, “Oh To Be Like Thee.” The fourth verse and chorus are as follows:


Verse 4
Oh to be like Thee
Lowly in spirit
Holy and harmless
Patient and brave
Meekly enduring
Cruel reproaches
Willing to suffer
Others to save

Chorus
Oh to be like Thee
Oh to be like Thee
Blessed Redeemer
Pure as Thou art
Come in Thy Sweetness
Come in Thy Fullness
Stamp Thine own Image
Deep on my heart

--Thomas Obediah Chisholm | William James Kirkpatrick
© Words: Public Domain
Music: Public Domain


“Cruel reproaches willing to suffer?” Are you? Am I?

Jesus made it clear what the costs of following Him would be and still are today. The floggings might be easier on our mind in the long run. At least then we have scars to show what we have put up with. Unkind remarks leave no visible wound whereby we may gain some sympathy. I say this because sympathy (understanding) from others does make our suffering a bit easier to take. Ah, but Jesus has already told us He understands, for they called him names and made fun of Him. So we are encouraged to keep our “eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne.” (Hebrews 12:1b)


Father in heaven, as children we quote the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.” In reality names can hurt. We want people to like us. Make it clear in our hearts that it is much more important to please You than it is to please the people around us. In Jesus Name, AMEN!!!

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