Stand Up For Jesus

 June 11, 2025

Verse of the day - Mark 8:34 (NRSV)

He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.

In chapter 10 of my first book, Jesus speaks to us about becoming His followers.

Excerpt from Spirituality, A Journey For My Soul

To become one of My disciples you need to deny the ways of the world.  In the world there will be many crosses.  Take up your cross and follow Me.  I will lead you home.

Many times when My followers are tested, they turn away from Me and follow the ways of the world instead.  There have been many people who have not denied knowing Me when asked to do so.  They were martyred for My sake and joined Me in the Heavenly Realms.  Blessed are you when you acknowledge Me instead of following the ways of the world.  Standing up for Me and for the sake of the gospel is not an easy thing to do.  Have faith that you will be greatly rewarded in Heaven.  Be not afraid, for I went to the cross before everyone to save the world from their sins.  When you are not afraid to follow Me and do as I ask, you will come home to Me at the end of your earthly life.  There will be great joy in Heaven for everyone who believes in Me.

As we journey through life we will be challenged by many difficulties.  During our times of trial and suffering, Jesus desires us to still follow Him even if others come against us.  Through our faith we will be able to stand up for Jesus.