Sweet-smelling Sacrifice
"For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day". (2 Timothy 1:12 NKJV) Jesus Christ suffered and died to pay the price for the sin of the world, thereby bringing those who believe in this sacrifice to life from death. Therefore, the shame of Christ's suffering and death is swallowed by the sound of His resurrection. Like Apostle Paul, all who believe in Christ are encouraged not to be ashamed to suffer for the cause of the gospel. Obviously, it is shameful to be deprived of one's right to dignity and respect, especially for righteousness' sake; but no one can prevent the glory of the righteous' crown at the Saviour's feet. Willingness to suffer shame without being ashamed is a sweet-smelling sacrifice.