2 Nephi 9:18

2 Nephi 9:18

"But, behold, the righteous, the saints of the Holy One of Israel, they who have believed in the Holy One of Israel, they who have endured the crosses of the world, and despised the shame of it, they shall inherit the kingdom of God, which was prepared for them from the foundation of the world, and their joy shall be full forever."

This scripture caught my attention a couple of years ago.  The setting is part of a sermon given to the Nephites by Nephi's brother Jacob. 

I like this scripture because it points out what the disciples of Christ will endure for their faith and belief.  The line that really caught my attention was "...they who have endured the crosses of the world..."  It will not be easy to be a disciple of Christ.  You will be "despised" for your beliefs.  You will face constant challenges in your life (note the plural "crosses").  Discipleship will be full of demands and challenges. 

But, there are two great promises if you stay as a faithful follower...

1. "...they shall inherit the kingdom of God..."
2. "...their joy shall be full forever."

Wow!  Those are powerful and great promises that await the disciples of Christ.  While it will be tough for a time, the day will come when Christ will welcome you into the Kingdom of God.  A great promise in return for true faith and commitment to Christ.

I love this scripture.