SEP 22

Hebrews 12:3
Memorise Hebrews 12:3
“For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself”

In the Hebrews 11, we see Paul exhorting his brethren to follow the godly examples of the ‘heroes of faith’ that had gone before them. Every one of them suffered and sacrificed for the Lord. Now in Hebrews 12:1, he reminds them to run the spiritual race well, seeing that they have this great cloud of witnesses as examples. In verse 2, he further brings the example of Jesus who “endured the cross, despising the shame” and as a result is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God. In verse 3, we are further called to consider the great opposition that Jesus faced, who ‘endured such contradiction of sinners against himself’. In times of trials, we are to consider and think of this truth and be encouraged.

What was this ‘great contradiction’ that Jesus faced? Well the Jews in the time of our Lord constantly opposed Him, perverted His sayings and ridiculed His miracles, saying they were done with the help of the devil. The Pharisees denied His deity, mocked Him and treated Him with the utmost contempt. They were also against His actions when he healed on the Sabbath day. Yet despite their opposition, He persevered in the course that His heavenly Father had marked out for Him. In order to humbly learn from our Lord’s example, we should study Jesus’ conduct when He was on earth. As He acted, we are called to act. Jesus conquered their opposition with meekness, patience, and perseverance. We should follow in His steps. As you follow and trust Him, you will receive strength. Therefore, no matter how great your opposition or trial may be, do not be weary.

Dear teen, do unbelievers face opposition and trials in their lives? If you think about it, all mankind do. Believers and unbelievers all face problems in life. The difference is that we have a heavenly Father who has promised to protect, guide and care for us and He has the power to do so. Unbelievers do not have this. Thus why should we be discouraged when men oppose us? We can pray. We can seek the wisdom of our heavenly Father. We have the blessed Holy Spirit who will bring to remembrance the Word of God for our encouragement. We have the supreme example of Jesus who despised the shame and went all the way to the cross in order to save us from our sins. All our suffering are but light afflictions compared to the martyrs of old. We have not resisted unto blood. They will work an eternal weight of glory if we valiantly endure.

Thought: “If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small” (Proverbs 24:10).
Prayer: Merciful Father, grant me grace to endure the adversities of life.