Many of God's servants have endured tremendous suffering at the hands of His enemies.  They were rejected, persecuted, and lied about by people who took their hatred out on God's children.

     Jeremiah the prophet, for instance, was often scorned in public.  John the Baptist was beheaded by a king.  The apostle John was banished to a barren island, while saint Paul was beaten frequently. 

     Trials, tribulations and tests of their faith came often.  And each of them got to know suffering in its various forms:  physical, emotional, and spiritual.  Yet they endured all things because they trusted in the One Who had promised never to forsake them not even in the most difficult hours.  These forerunners walked not by what they could see with their natural eyes, but through spiritual eyes they journeyed along the bright path of faith.

     Therefore, if we, as believers in Messiah Jesus are to survive in a world with its betrayals and cruelties, we too must set our sights and affections on heavenly things.  We need to have confidence in all that God has promised to those who love Him.   For the same Lord who was with them, is with us today.

                            David  Berkowitz

                            April 3, 2005

(c) 2005  David Berkowitz