The 2018 Fifa World Cup is officially underway. Russia, who is the host country, won the first match with a whopping five to zero score over Saudi Arabia. I am sure shockwaves could be felt as Saudi Arabia lost in such a dramatic way while the world watched.
However, despite the loss, they have much to be proud of. For starters, they made it to the World Cup. They also have talented players and the discipline garnered from the practices and many sacrifices is invaluable. Not to mention, they are still being paid. Additionally, they have two more matches to redeem themselves so all is not lost.
This reminds me of Jesus. He had to submit to his parents, be an example to his siblings, then he had to be disciplined in the workplace. On leaving his job as a carpenter and entering full time ministry, he was healing the sick and raising the dead; followed by a dramatic turn of events. He was despised, rejected and murdered, while the city watched.
After being hidden for thirty years, then manifested for three and a half years, here comes his big break and the best he could do was submit to death? Was Jesus to be ashamed?
He understood purpose. It was his season to be mocked and jeered, ridiculed and ‘seemingly’ lose the battle. He endured it. He took on the shame and the beating. It was the Father’s will.
Nevertheless, time proved that he was and is the conquering lion. All was not lost. Redemption came when he rose from the grave and now he lives again.
Today, you may abhor the beating and the negative situations, and adverse relationships may be interpreted as defeat. But if you endure hardship as a good soldier and stay in the game, you will reap in due season. All is not lost. Trust God’s hand in the outcome. Endure the training and the beating. If you can take it, you will make it.
Hebrews 12:11
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
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