Today's Word of Blessing

ENDURING TO THE END

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.    (John 15:4)

  Many years ago, there broke out a war between Greece and Rome. Determined to capture Greece anyhow, the Roman soldiers fought so fiercely. But, alas! In the end it was Greece that won. To communicate this news of victory to their country, a swift runner was chosen by the Greek army.


Athens, the capital of Greece, was 26 miles away from the battlefield. The messenger ran so heartily and entered the city. He called the people shouting: “Rejoice! For we have won the war!” and made all of them rejoice. Even as they all broke forth into joy, unfortunately, he fainted and fell dead on the spot. He could not endure to the end and join the victory celebrations.


In this same manner, in our Christian life, we are racing towards God and the eternal life which He gives. However, the Lord says: “All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved” (Matthew 10:22). “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:12,13).


When trials and temptations, sins and iniquities assail us, how are we to endure to the end and obtain the crown of life? Lord Jesus said: “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me” (John 15:4).


Dearly beloved, to abide in Lord Jesus Christ is to obey Him. He says, “If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love (John 15:10). Those who love Him will keep His commandments. Therefore, we must run the race of faith with endurance to receive the eternal reward.


Prayer:


Loving Lord Jesus,


Thank You for granting me your salvation. You have redeemed me through your precious blood. I thank You for your sacrifice. Help me to obey your commandments and lead a holy life. Give me the grace to abide in You that I may inherit your blessings. Enable me to run the race of faith in endurance that I may receive the eternal reward. I give You all honour, glory and praise.


In Your matchless name I pray.


Amen.