Followers of God distinguish themselves by their conduct in the face of difficulty, devastation, and loss. There is a price to be paid for associating with the cause of Jesus. Being a loyal follower of Jesus is not just messy, it is dangerous, hazardous, and potentially life-threatening. It is a matter of life and death!

How should such matters be faced? Paul tells us he is able to live a joyful life because he has determined that Jesus Christ will be magnified in his life, central to his life, and praised by his life.