S - Matthew 24:9 “Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers.[b] 10 And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other."
O - Jesus is telling about the end of the world and what will take place. In these passages he is talking about the pain and affliction Christians will endure in those last days; persecution, death, and hatred, just to name a few. Because of this many will fall away to save themselves and betray and hate their fellow Christians.
A - We are seeing some of that today with the media portraying Christians as intollerent and bigots. Because of that people are starting to shy away from saying the truth, in love, and lowering standards or even worse, questioning their own beliefs. I need to be ever aware of this slippery slope of lowering standards, God's standards, and questioning who I am or even who God is. I can boldly stand on Him and for Him but do so in a way that doesn't show that I hate others or am better than others. Some may be attracted to this and want what I have but others will continue to shun me and God, but that doesn't mean that I need or can bring everyone to God. Keep standing for Him and sharing Him with others.
P - God, I stay before you today asking and pleeding for your forgiveness. I pray that you will forgive me for the times that I haven't been bold for you or questioned you. You are the creator and my protector and I ask for your forgiveness. Help me to be bold for you and to live a life that pleases you even if it means that I may not "succeed" here on this earth. My pursuit of success in this life should not and will not run over the truth of you or change my values. I pray that my life is a living testimony to you for my family and for others to see and to also follow you. I pray for your protection, healing, and blessing today on my family and me.
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