Text: Matthew 10:26-42.
The ultimate end of good news is to have peace with God (John 14:27; Rom 8:6); but the immediate process is full of conflict. In some communities, conversion to Christ can bring strained relationships between family members (vv.34-36), persecution, especially from some other faiths, and sometimes martyrdom. Therefore, to follow Christ is not a simple thing.
One should be willing to endure hardships and stand firm under the banner
of Christ. Your love for God must be your priority.
Meditate on verse 38. How are you going to apply it to your life?
Almighty God and our Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, give me courage, power, love and sound mind to carry my cross daily and not be ashamed to confess Your healing and gracious saving power as I follow You. Amen.