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I expect daily to be killed, betrayed, or brought back into slavery, or something of the kind. But, because of the promise of heaven, I fear none of these things.
- Patrick, Confession (British, 5th century)
"I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
- Acts 21.13
We will never realize the full potential and abundance of the Christian life until we have the right expectations to guide us day by day.
What do you expect as a follower of Christ today? Not much? If so, that's what you'll know.
Do you expect to encounter the Lord in His glory, to be drawn into and overwhelmed by His weighty, glorious presence, so that you are pervaded and filled by Him and transformed into the image of Jesus Christ? If not, count on it - it won't happen.
Do you expect to suffer for Jesus? Are you prepared to do so? Do you expect the Lord to open a door of opportunity for you to bear witness to Him? If not, you won't be looking for one.
Do you expect to be able to touch someone with the love of Jesus? Whom? How? Are you preparing for that opportunity even now, seeking the Lord's strength to enable you to will and do what is pleasing to Him?
Patrick expected to be faced with every imaginable obstacle to his ministry, every day of his life. He was so successful in his ministry largely because he was prepared for whatever came at him and determined to overcome every challenge. So also the Apostle Paul.
To know the life which Jesus has given to us, we need to nurture the expectations He holds out to us in His Word. Expect to meet Him and grow closer to Him. Expect to bear the fruit and power of the Spirit. Expect to be asked a reason for the hope that is within you. Expect to be mocked by some but welcomed and gratefully received by others.
Expect to die to yourself and you'll find that you just might actually live to Jesus Christ.
What are your expectations for your walk with Jesus today?
T. M. Moore, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.