Gods Sabbath

G OD ’ S W ITNESSES

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God’s decision to solve the sin problem committed Christ and those who share in redemption’s blessings, to whatever suffering and death is necessary to defeat the enemy. God never sacrifices people in order to establish His honor and His kingdom. He is not the one who requires this sacrifice. Therefore it is not a case of the end justifying the means. Just as He does, we have to accept the fact that without sacrifice there is no solution to the sin problem. We cannot enter into the peace of God’s Sabbath rest unless we follow this principle. And if we fail to enter into His rest, then we will be seriously disturbed in mind and spirit when calamities and troubles befall us. God’s purpose in enlisting His followers into His army is not just to grant them His healing power and protection. All are saved to serve, to reveal His true, just, loving, and righteous character in the battle against evil, and to share with Him in His noble work of ending rebellion throughout the universe. As His witnesses, we cannot do this work without being partakers with Him in His sufferings. Paul, who understood and accepted this principle, is a worthy example for us. He said: “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him.” Philippians 1:29. “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, char acter; and character, hope.” Romans 5:3, 4. The presence of adversity and suffering in Paul’s life did not disturb his peace for a moment. Understanding God’s character and working, Paul recognized that tribulation occupied an es sential place in his service to God and his fellows. He knew the value of adversity and suffering in developing Christian experi ence and he accepted the nature of the witness he could give on ly under these conditions. He realized that tribulation afforded him a privilege which not even the angels have. Therefore, he not only accepted these trials calmly, but actually rejoiced under suffering. This attitude will be shared by all who enter into God’s Sabbath rest. Who Can Witness?