Jesus went about the land, teaching and preaching God’s truth. Large crowds gathered around to hear Him. Some came wanting to be healed. Others came out of curiosity. While some came to find fault and to criticize. Seeing the crowds that gathered and hearing of all that Jesus taught, his own brothers and childhood friends came to try to take Him away quietly. They believed Him to be either possessed by Satan or mentally ill. How often is that the case when your eyes awaken to the truth of the gospel? Jesus faced every temptation that we do; so, He could be our Shepherd. Those who choose to take a stand for Jesus Christ, are often criticized by the media, peers, and even family. Will you Stand for Jesus when the world criticizes?
Jesus also faced such critics as He journeyed here on earth. James, his own brother; called Him crazy and a disgrace to the family name. However, following the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus; He appeared to His brother James. James went on to be leader of the church in Jerusalem and to even die a martyr. What changed his mind? He saw the resurrected Jesus in all His Glory. Therefore, James became one of the greatest witnesses for the gospel message. Why? Because, he recognized the truth. Jesus, the Son of God, came to earth, suffered pain and rejection, died on a cross to be the sacrificial lamb for all humanity, was buried and, then, rose from the grave victorious over sin and death. James also knew, that even though His earthly brother; he too could only be saved by seeking Jesus as His Lord and Savior.
Stand for Jesus
Until we recognize there is no other way to be right before God apart from the blood of Christ, we remain lost in our own self-aggrandizement. That is why Jesus said, “I came not to call the righteous, but the sinners to repentance” (Mark 2:17). Those who believe themselves to be righteous, would never bow before the Lord; seeking Him as their Savior. Only those of us who have come to the very end of ourselves, knowing we are desperately in need of a Savior; fall down at His feet. We, who know the truth; that there is nothing that our guilty hands could do to earn salvation; are the ones who sing, “You can have all this world; but give me Jesus” as written by Jeremy Camp.
Through trials, sorrows, and moments of rejection; I still take my stand for Jesus. Because Jesus is the most precious gift of all; I have no worries, though I lose everything else in this world. Life has no meaning; apart, from Him.
Though the World Criticizes.
Many will call you names or declare you crazy when you take a stand for Jesus. They will call you a bigot for saying that Jesus is the only way of salvation; but, remember this. He took that stand well before you and He will be there with you every step of the way.
Close your eyes for just a moment and listen to this video:
When you take a stand for Jesus, the world criticizes you and all your beliefs. However, when you know the sweetness of His Grace toward you; how can you not be willing to lose all else just to have Him? So, I ask you again. “Will you take a stand for Jesus when the world criticizes?”
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?
If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here or comment here
JUST RELEASED
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Recently released Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.
OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE
If you want to know more about other books I have written: You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.
©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Footnotes and Credits:
The feature picture is used by permission: RoninRon Creative Art.