The Whole Story: A Life in God's Kingdom, Part ThreeSample

Daily Reflection: Being a follower of Christ is not a “get out suffering free” card. In truth, life has a way of dealing out trial whether we are looking for it or not. Numerous times in the Old Testament, including Daniel 11, we are exposed to the reality of this suffering. Often, it can quickly seem as though there may be no hope. Fortunately, this is not – and never will be – the case. Despite even the worst of circumstances in Daniel 11, the desolation of the temple, there was still hope for the future. This is a hope in which Jesus lived his life. He knew what was ahead of him – suffering as we will never know. Yet, he stuck to the course laid out before him, and persevered, nonetheless.

Daily Demonstration: Have you ever been in a circumstance in which you felt hopeless? Are you in a hopeless season now? Take heart! Our hope is not anchored in anything in this world, but it is instead anchored in eternity – the destination in which Jesus had his eyes set with all of his people in mind. Do your best to set your mind on eternity today and confidently progress through suffering. Ask Jesus to provide perspective for you, as he is the hope for all God’s people.