THURSDAY, MAY 16
Scripture: Matthew 10:32-34

Matthew 10:32-34 we are told, “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven. Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword.” How often do we hear that preached in church? God makes it clear in Matthew 10 that He is sending a sword through the believing church in answer to man’s rebellion. How painful is it when the sword of division separates family or friends! Purity and righteousness has to become our lifestyle. Jesus demands a church that fearlessly represents Him by speaking what the Holy Spirit says. Preparing people for persecution is not easy. It starts with a commitment to do what the Spirit demands. In His relationship with His Father, Jesus faithfully did what He saw and spoke what He heard. Can we make that same commitment? The standard is clear. The path is straight. Will we sign on for the last days?