Cosmic Chalkboards

... so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory.—Ephesians 3:10-12

Last week, the women of Bethlehem were challenged by Joni Eareckson Tada.  Her message, "The Stakes Are Higher Than You Think," was from the True Woman '10 Conference in Indianapolis, IN: 

God wants to use our lives—your life and mine—as black boards upon which He chalks marvelous lessons about Himself for the benefit of millions and millions of unseen beings. Angels, even demons, are intensely interested in the way I respond to my afflictions because it teaches them something about God.

Not just for the edification of my neighbors and friends. Not just for the building up of Christian brothers and sisters who look on and see my response. Yes, all that is important, but my life is on display for the benefit of a great many others, millions and millions of others in the unseen spirit world. this isn't science fiction. Look at Luke 15:10. It shows us how interested the spirit world is in the way we respond to God when we're suffering for it says, “I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

God's reputation is on the line and that alone stops me from collapsing in defeat. My life is on display, and so is yours. It's all for God's glory.

You may think it doesn't amount to much when you hold your tongue from complaining or when you refuse to give in to fear. But when you embrace your Savior in the midst of hardship, I tell you what, it really turns up the applause meter for the Lord Jesus in heaven. The entire universe sees Him as worthy. They see Him as able. They see Him as powerful. And considering how weak and spineless we can be, they are astounded at His mercy and condescending to us.

Watch, listen or read the rest of the message, "The Stakes Are Higher Than You Think."