Forever Home in the Eternal Family of God

Daily Encouragement for the Family of God by Kenton Cheek

6 May 2025

Reading From Luke 23:26-56

“Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea, and he himself was waiting for the kingdom of God. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid.  It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.”—Luke 23:50-54

What a caring and loving heart this Joseph had for our Lord. Not only did he show incredible courage in opposing his fellow council members’ plot to arrest and execute Jesus, but he used his high level influence and resources to be able to receive the body of the Messiah and tend to His burial. We have much to learn from Joseph’s example.

We, as followers of the righteous Judge and judges in training ourselves, need to discern between right and wrong by the wisdom of the Scriptures illuminated by the Holy Spirit. Once we have discerned that which is right, we need to ask God for the courage needed to stand up and be counted among the Lord’s own and boldly speak the truth in love.

Each of us has been placed in a sphere of influence and been entrusted by God with resources to steward. From the greatest to the least of us, whatever our station in society, we need to use our influence and resources to do good and advance the Kingdom of God. Do not despise small beginnings in this. Even if it means choosing to be brave and encouraging a fellow student or co-worker or making a small donation to a worthy cause, take a step or steps today to follow the remarkable example of Joseph of Arimathea.

“Lord, thank You for placing each of us where we are at in this world. Anoint us with the power of Your Spirit to stand up for what us right, boldly speak the truth in love, use any and all influence we have for good, and utilize resources at our disposal to obey Your Great Commandment and Great Commission. In the Name of Jesus Christ, the Risen Savior I pray these things. Amen.”

⁹ Honor the Lord with your wealth,
    with the firstfruits of all your crops;
¹⁰ then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
    and your vats will brim over with new wine.

—Proverbs 3:9-10

Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.—I Timothy 4:12