December 31, 2021 | Acts 5

Read Acts 5

Scripture- Acts 5:41- The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.

Observation- The apostles had all kinds of reasons to rejoice. Men and women were coming to faith. They were healing a remarkable number of people. They were highly regarded people in the area. Yet, why did they rejoice? They had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for Jesus’ name. 

Application- There are plenty of reasons for me to rejoice as a Christian. Jesus has forgiven all my sins. He has conquered the grave. He has given me his righteousness as my own. He promises to be with me always. But I don’t generally think of suffering disgrace for him as a reason to rejoice. In fact, I would rather not face disgrace. I would rather keep my reputation as it is. I would rather be likable. However, there’s rejoicing to be done even when I face disgrace for Jesus. Why? Because it means that I am part of him and that I belong to the Savior’s family. It is only by grace that I am part of God’s family through Jesus. He suffered the disgrace of the cross that I may be brought into his family. What a joy it is to be part of that family; even when I face disgrace for his name.

Prayer- Dear Jesus, thank you for bringing me into your family. Let me not fear disgrace for your name because it truly is a joy to be part of your family. Thank you for the forgiveness you have given me. Let me live unashamed as one of your family members today rejoicing in all circumstances.