Keep on growing in the faith and increasing in virtue no matter how much you may suffer for Christ.

Be not like the seed that fell in shallow ground that quickly sprang up and rejoiced with gladness until the first hardships came and then they fell away.

All that live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution that they may receive the greater reward in Heaven.
Brethren, there is no reward in Heaven for living an easy life and taking the easy road.

It is far better to have peace and joy within your inner self while being in the presence of turmoil and sadness in your outer life, than it is to have serenity and happiness in your outer life and be filled with anxiety and bitterness within your soul (inner self).

God looks at the heart.

Hallelujah!

©05/09/2001 Jim Welch

Original URL:  http://AbidinginChrist.seranates.com