The Freedom of Glorifying God
John 18:9 "I have not lost one of those you gave me." Jesus was speaking of the disciples he had been given by God to train and go on to spread his word. They were regular men just like you and me, and actually the flunkies of seminary school, if you will. Jesus took them, taught them, challenged them, scolded them, and laughed with them. They grew to be hated, hunted, and generally disliked by all important society of the time. They encountered many trials and hardships because of Who they tried to bring glory to. But Jesus never allowed them to be lost. He covered them, counseled and protected them. He didn't keep them from the trials but their actions were testaments to God's glory. Even their deaths brought glory to God. Think about it... we may go through great trials but, if God wants us alive for his purpose, nothing will conquer us. Regardless of what I may face in speaking or acting upon God's truth, my life or death is in His hands and EITHER can be used...