“And, oh, dear brothers, who are engaged in winning souls, let me say to you, by the memories of all these good men who have gone before you, and who were counted eccentric, fear no man’s frown, and court no man’s smile, but say the right thing and the true, and say it as best you can, and ask God’s help that you may say it so that you may make men feel it, even though you sting them into anger; for blessed shall that man be who has discharged his conscience before the living God. Do not sacrifice your hearers’ souls to your own reputations. Be fools for Christ’s sake.”

Charles Spurgeon

Christians are called to suffer for Christ.

For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him. (Philippians 1:29)

Remember that Christ himself knows your pain of service and will personally deal with it.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. (1 Peter 5:10)

Though it be hard to imagine, our sufferings will be far outweighed by the eternity we are offered.

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (2 Cor 4:17)

This week ask Jesus to give you opportunities to talk about him. This week pray that the Spirit will empower you to be a clear and passionate communicator. As you speak, think of the eternal suffering you are trying to save your hearer from.

Denis Oliver