Esteeming The Reproach Of Christ.

“Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.” Heb. 11:26.

There is an old story about the Greek Marathon. Many athletes prepared and conditioned themselves to run this race, because of the price attached. Two prizes would be awarded to the winner of the Marathon: a magnificent bouquet of flowers and the honour of standing beside the king until the conclusion of other contests. This young man with a great physique and very athletic outlook was part of the contest. He was offered money and a house to stay away from the contest. He rejected it and insisted he would rather run.

When the signal was given, he bolted towards the finish line. He no doubt was the first to cross, well ahead of the rest. When it was all done, someone asked the young man if he thought the flowers were worth as much as the money and property he had refused. He replied, “I did not enter the race for the flowers. I ran so that I could stand beside my king!” in his thoughts and estimation he esteemed being by the king far above any resources anyone could give him.

The greatest honour we should be seeking is the honour from God. The only glory we should be seeking is the glory that comes from God. The only praise we should ever worry about is God’s praise. In order to achieve that, we must esteem the reproach of Christ, more than the pleasures and attractions from the world. By faith, Moses renounced his place of privilege in Pharaoh's family, choosing to identify himself with God's people. He knew that loss and suffering awaited him. Yet, he was strengthened by faith to make this life-shaping decision by esteeming Christ's riches above Egypt's. How much of this persuasion governs your existence. It's worth every sacrifice, to serve God with all your heart, strength and might. Yield yourself in totality.

FURTHER READING:

“But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.” Phil. 3:7-8.

“I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.” Rom. 8:18.

DECLARATION: 

Dear Abba Father, I thank You for another day and the gift of life and grace. I’m what I'm by your grace and living Word. I obtain more grace today to see you more clearly, love you more dearly and to follow you more nearly in my daily walk. I’m consecrated to you and your eternal counsel, teach me your will I will do your bidding in the mighty name of Jesus, amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:   

Mark. 15:1-47.

Mark. 16:1-20.

Luke.   1:1-80.

QUOTE FOR THE DAY:

“The Mark Of A Saint Is Not Perfection, But Consecration. A Saint Is Not A Man Without Faults, But A Man Without Guile.”