Is it right that we should think to appear before the Lord unscathed?  He was hung as a butcher might hang beef.  In his plight they only laughed and taunted him.  On the way to his glory he was rejected and despised.  Few listened to his words.  Few understood.  Few were willing to believe even though God gave him superior gifts as a sign to all men; the fullness of God’s Holy Spirit was upon him .

We are to be his bride.  Is it right that the bride of the Holy One of God should be less tested?  Jesus is the Holy One sent to be among us .  He is forever the strong husband of a beautiful bride.

Let her be prepared in this place of testing.  Desire him.  Desire the will of the Holy Father.  And you will be purified.

The father has selected you for a great place in eternity.  If the greatest among all has been tested as was Jesus, do we think we should escape a similar persecution?  Bring to mind the testimony of two great Witnesses:

12 “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. . .” And, “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.”

Submit then joyfully.  God is true.  Allow him to bring glory to His Son.  And do not shrink back.

“But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.”

By His Grace