Daily Light - February 6, 2011

Daily Light from the Lighthouse
40 Days of Faith

"They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword.

They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented..." Hebrews 11:37

This band of the faithful experienced all of the horrors that this world and hell could unleash on them. To read this passage is almost gut-wrenching, because you realize that these same afflictions face many in the world today. Why? It is simply because the name of Jesus is found on their lips and in their hearts. They believe that God is true no matter what the scoffers may think and say.
As each stone was hurled at these innocent victims, the air whispered the name of Jesus. The cry of those that had their bodies torn apart by the assailants of the enemy sounded like forgiveness and grace. No sword pierced into the bodies of these individuals deeper than God pierced their hearts and minds. In the midst of those who were persecuted yesterday and today, you can find what it is like to be in the presence of Jesus. Even in these moments of human desperation you will hear praise for Jehovah God and forgiveness for those who choose to reject Christ and persecute His followers.
These individuals clothed their naked bodies with whatever they could find. The real nakedness that was exposed was the lie of Satan and his followers. Their motives were to destroy the name of God, but they only brought greater attention and glory to that name. The sheepskins and goatskins were only a temporary covering. The true covering of these souls was the precious blood of Christ that could be seen only by the Father in Heaven. There is a day when they will stand robed in the brightness of God's righteousness before the throne of God.
How does one endure being destitute, afflicted, and tormented? They place their faith in the One who is peace and gives peace that is not of this world. Faith in God brings a hope that is sure that Christ will fulfill all that He has promised.
May you clothe yourself only in Christ today!