And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved (Matthew 10:22).
Words that had direct and immediate application to the apostles nearly 2,000 years ago are still pertinent and meaningful to Christians today. Those men were “hated.” They were hated “by all.” The hatred was directed at them because of the name of Christ.
Christians in twenty-first century America may never taste the intensity of the hatred suffered by the first-century Christians, but hatred for the name of Christ we shall (presently and in the future) suffer nonetheless. May the words of Peter guide our hearts, “If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name” (1 Peter 4:16).
The promise to the twelve is the promise to us: “He who endures to the end will be saved!” Let us focus, endure, glorify and rejoice!
The book Meditations Of My Heart (from which this daily devotional is taken) is available / can be ordered from Sain Publications (931-363-6905 or email psain@sainpublications.com).