Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
- Matthew chapter 10, verse 28
Recent world events have highlighted the fallen nature of the world. Violence and evil seem to prevail. Threats to our society and religion seem imminent. Yet despite all the threats the world faces, we have little to fear.
Out of all the disciples, only John died a natural death, the rest of Jesus' disciples were martyred.
These were people who did not fear death, because each of the saw the resurrected Christ.
Like them, we have nothing to fear, for there is nothing truly precious that can be taken away from us by others (Matthew chapter 10, verse 28).
We remember the disciples today not for the fact that they died, but because they lived for Christ.
Paul, as a prime example, demonstrated that despite the threats we may face, all that is important is the glory of God:
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.
- Phillipians chapter 3, verses 7–8
The only thing of great value in our lives is Christ: nobody and no one can take this away from us. This simple notion has the power to shape our lives.
No matter how long or short our lives may be, a life lived for Christ transcends death. I hope every day that my life is lived for Christ, regardless of the cost. Because our time with God is priceless.
But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.
- 2 Peter chapter 3, verse 8
Nathanael Yates from Perth, Western Australia, is an award-winning young scientist completing a PhD in the neurobiology of schizophrenia
Nathanael Yates' previous articles may be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/nathanael-yates.html