God blesses those who patiently endure testing and
temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God
has promised to those who love him.
Sunday morning at church, the worship team led us
in a beautiful rendition of "O
Come to the Altar" by Elevation Worship. As they strummed guitars and voices rose, I focused on the words. The song talks about Jesus and how he
has his arms open to us who may be hurting or searching. The words reminded me
that Jesus wants me to come to him and bow down, seeking his love. As I sang
along and we came to the end of the song, this line grabbed me—"Bear your
cross, as you wait on your crown."
That line describes life. Temptation and testing
happens every day. The devil never misses an opportunity to poke his ugly
fingers into our lives. He'd love more than anything for us to succumb to his
wily ways. But that's only part of the story. The second half of the line,
"wait on your crown" is overflowing with hope. As I seek Jesus, he
shores me up and equips me with the tools to fight back and knock Satan out of
my life. Jesus provides resistance and strength. As you bear your cross and
wait on your crown, know that Jesus stands with you.
...hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Ephesians 6:16