In this sermon by Basilia Schlink titled "For Jesus' Sake," she emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the midst of suffering and persecution for the sake of Christ. She highlights that those who truly love Jesus will understand the privilege of sharing in His sufferings. Schlink references 1 Peter 4:13, where the Apostle Peter encourages believers to rejoice in their participation in Christ's sufferings. She also mentions that not all believers will experience the same degree of suffering, but if one is never attacked or mocked for their faith, they should question their commitment to Christ. Schlink concludes by reminding listeners that suffering for Jesus' sake brings them closer to Him and ultimately leads to great rewards and glory in heaven.

God lives and works today. When he intervenes, everything in our lives takes on a new perspective. Things that we would have avoided at any cost suddenly become a joy to us. Listen to today's meditation by Vassalia Schlink called For Jesus' Sake. In many different places, the Bible tells us to rejoice. And we have reason to rejoice because God loves us. He gives us countless gifts. In him we have a Father who lovingly cares for us, who has accepted us to be his children in Jesus, and that is our joy. In 1 Peter 4, verse 13, the Apostle writes to his congregations, Rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings. Who understands what it means to rejoice that we may share Christ's sufferings? Only those who love Jesus. Because if I love him, it is an honor for me to suffer and to bear disgrace for his sake. By doing so, I come very close to Jesus and I follow in his footsteps. For this reason, the Apostle Peter writes, as if it were a privilege to be able to share Christ's sufferings and disgrace. Why does Peter consider it such a privilege and a gift from the Lord? Behind this attitude are the words of Jesus, his Master, Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your name as evil on account of the Son of Man. Your reward is great in heaven. Luke 6, verse 22-23 Blessed are all who tread Jesus' own way, twice blessed indeed with the joy of today, and glory awaiting in heaven. Yes, great glory awaits everyone who is ready to suffer disgrace for Jesus' sake. According to the Scriptures, this suffering should be a part of every believer's life. For it is written in 2 Timothy 3, All who desire to live a godly life in Christ will be persecuted. However, not all have to suffer in the same degree. If I'm never attacked, mocked, or disgraced because of my faith, then I have to ask myself whether something is wrong. Slander and mockery may also come from the lips of the so-called pious, just as Jesus was ridiculed by the pious people of his day, the Pharisees. Whenever Jesus' discipleship is taken seriously and without compromise, it's like a challenge which will cause a division among the people. Some will be drawn to follow Jesus, and others will mock and ridicule. For as Matthew 10, verse 24 says, The disciple is not above his master. Where do you stand? Jesus, your way, is the life we now choose To follow you closely, so all else we lose Is all our desire and all our longing. You have been listening to a program written by Basilia Schlink of the Little Land of Canaan. To learn more about how God lives and works today, visit us at our website, www.canaan.org. If you contact us, we would be happy to send you a free inspirational booklet. If you do not have access to the web, please write to God Lives and Works Today, 9849 North 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85028-4099. God bless you.