Job 11-13; Acts 9:1-21

When Jesus knocked SAUL (Paul) off his donkey on the road to Damascus, He launched him into the most contradictory life!

Jesus: “I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”

The Jews: “Conspired to kill him…

 The Disciples: “Were all afraid of him, not believing that he really

was a disciple.”

 Saul/Paul: “Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked.” 

2 Corinthians 11:24-27

Suffering, death threats, beatings, stoning, Shipwreck, Starvation - WHO would SIGN UP for THAT???

But check this out – here’s Paul’s take on the Life Jesus called him to:

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”

2 Corinthians 4:16-17

WHAT?

And from his prison cell awaiting execution by beheading – Paul says:

“Rejoice with me!”

 Are you experiencing suffering in the life God has called you to?

If you aren’t, you will.

But as a follower of Jesus – WITH your suffering and troubles – comes unexplainable JOY – and the deep awareness that your FUTURE with Jesus makes temporary pain SO WORTH IT!

What a contradictory – but awesome – life.

See you Tomorrow!

Tags: Acts, Bayside Church Woodland, Bayside Woodland, Bible Study, Job