Some people loved God so much that they were killed for their beliefs. The first martyr, Stephen, spoke out against the Jewish leadership and was stoned to death. Ironically, the future apostle Paul was a member of the killing party (see Acts 7:54-60).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Jim Elliot, a missionary, gave his life in Christ\u2019s service. Jim, along with four other missionaries, was killed by the very people God called him to serve in Ecuador. He wrote these memorable words in his journal, \u201cHe is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.\u201d These words have inspired many people to become missionaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Does God require us to become martyrs? Must we die for the sake of His kingdom? Usually not. But He does ask something much more difficult and daring of us\u2014that we live <\/em>for the sake of His Kingdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Living as faithful witnesses to the love of God takes more courage on a daily basis than making one split-second decision to give our lives for His sake. In one quick moment, we might decide to die for Jesus, but what about waking up every day in a depressing marriage or dead-end job and deciding to be a \u201cliving sacrifice\u201d for Him? The reality of talking and acting our faith at work or in a loveless marriage is a difficult thing to do. Yet that is what Jesus calls us to. We are challenged to heal the suffering with a listening ear. We are commissioned to banish the fear in someone else\u2019s heart with a kind word and encouraging friendship. We are commanded to be patient and forgiving with those around us who are the opposite\u2026always a challenging task!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Die for Jesus? Yes\u2014if He asks us to. Live for Jesus? We already have those orders.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Some people loved God so much that they were killed for their beliefs. The first martyr, Stephen, spoke out against the Jewish leadership and was stoned to death. Ironically, the future apostle Paul was a member of the killing party (see Acts 7:54-60). Jim Elliot, a missionary, gave his life in Christ\u2019s service. Jim, along with four other missionaries, was … <\/p>\n