Daily Word

Not only Paul, but all the New Testament writers say that we must go through trials and sufferings of various kinds in order to share in the glory of Christ.

Jesus also said that we must deny ourselves, take up our cross and lose our own life if we are to share in His glorious life.

”The cross first, the crown afterwards”, is an old saying.

But it is not just an old slogan.

It is the only way to the real Christian life: the life of the Spirit.

And it goes against the thinking and lifestyle of modern man.

It has always gone against popular belief.

But never has the message of self-realization and selfish satisfaction been trumpeted out so strongly as now.

And never have people so uninhibitedly and openly thrown themselves into pleasures and enjoyments in every possible way and manner – and never have there been so many opportunities for it and so much that attracts and draws.

People seek joy and satisfaction.

But it is “cheap”.

Always short-lived and fleeting.

There is a joy that is genuine, deeper than anything this world can offer.

But it is not cheap – it costs everything.

We must go through fire to get it.

The fire must burn away everything of our self-life.

Only then everything of Christ, everything of the “Spirit of glory” can come and “rest” upon us.

And then comes a strange joy!

We can rejoice in the midst of all trials and difficulties.

It is a supernatural joy – infinitely deeper than our natural feelings.

The joy of Christ.

A spiritual joy.

It is called “bliss”.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven.” (Matt.5:10-12)