Ephesians 3:11-13 — Conversations with God

…according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.  In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.  I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

Lord, even today I am thinking and praying about countless believers around the world who are suffering tribulations because of their faith and in a very real sense they are doing it on my behalf and on behalf of all believers everywhere.  I could very easily lose heart but for the truth spoken by Paul here that they are for our glory.

Those who are being persecuted will, I believe, be rewarded by You in heaven and be given an unusual amount of grace by the Holy Spirit to walk through this.  Their families and loved ones will receive Your comfort.  They will be enabled to rejoice at being worthy of suffering for Your name.

I, on the other hand, will be encouraged to be more faithful in my own witness, more faithful in prayer, and more ready, if need be, to suffer similar tribulation.

Thank You for giving us in Christ Jesus bold and confident access to You by faith.  Thank You that part of Your eternal purpose has always been to have loving relationship with me.  I need that assurance and I want to take advantage of the access You have provided.