The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Acts 5:40-41, “…and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them,

they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were

counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name.”

Character is revealed in reaction. When we do wrong, we suffer; and wisdom

tells us that we got what we deserved. But, when we know we’ve not done

wrong, we stand up for ourselves and argue against our accusers. Is it wrong

to do that? Maybe not always; but when we know it’s pointless to debate,

we just suffer the indignity, showing that we have strength not to fight.

The apostles of Jesus had been ordered by the Jewish Court not to speak in

His Name. They had been severely beaten physically in the effort to suppress

their preaching to the people, and then let go. Were the apostles mad? Did

they vow to get even with the Jewish leaders? No, they left rejoicing! Just

imagine how you would have felt. We’ll show you!! Just wait!! No, the apostles

rejoiced! Why? Because the LORD had counted them worthy to suffer the indignity

for His glory. That takes character! That shows character! Christians throughout

the world are suffering for Jesus right now, as you read these words. We may

some day be called upon to do the same. It is then that our true character will

be revealed. Will we then honor Him by rejoicing?

We love you and pray for you daily,

Nana & Dado III

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas