IT'S THE "FEAR" NOT THE "ACT" THAT CAUSES PAIN!

How many of us would die for someone else to know JESUS? How many of us really want to be like JESUS where this could become a reality? The disciples were a cowardly group until the HOLY SPIRIT came upon them.  Then what happened? As they shared the Gospel; Andrew, Bartholomew, Peter, Simon and Jude were all crucified.  Matthias and Stephen were stoned; Luke was hanged on an olive tree; James was beaten, stoned and then clubbed to death; James (the Great) and Paul were beheaded.  In historical fact, as James was on his way to his death, his accuser was so moved by James's Courage and Faith that he fell at James's feet, asked forgiveness and was converted.  He then asked the authorities for a Pardon for James's or to execute him with James.  Both were beheaded!  When Stephen was being stoned he had a smile and complete peace as he saw JESUS.  Philippians 4:7, "And the peace of GOD which surpasses all understanding..." Romans 8:38-39, "For I know, that neither death, nor life...nor things present, nor things to come...shall be able to separate us from the love of GOD..."  It is revealed and confirmed that there is no pain when we act for the Glory of GOD.  JESUS looked "beyond the Cross" to the Glory of Heaven. Do we look beyond our circumstances and fears until only the Glory of GOD is what matters?  Have we ever experienced the absolute fullness of HIS presence in any situation?  If so, then we know IT'S THE "FEAR" NOT THE "ACT" THAT CAUSES PAIN!  Do you think the disciples knew something we don't;  that when all is said and done, there is truly only a Remnant that wants to be like JESUS.


Psalm 139: 23-24
Isaiah  43:1
GOD IS GOD!