The Cost of Following Christ

"Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves..." (Mt.10:16a). This is not a pretty picture. But the picture in Matthew 10 doesn't improve. "And you will be hated by all on account of My name..." (10:22). But the Lord doesn't leave it there. He reminds us that a disciple is not above his teacher and we all know what happened to Jesus. As we face increasing hostility from the world because of our faith Jesus tells us, "do not fear those those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Hell." I'm praying for increasing grace and courage to face growing hostility towards my faith.