“Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward,” Hebrews 11:25-26.

We noted in our last study how the thinking of Moses was very different from that of mankind generally. He chose to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.

1. Moses was aware that the pleasures of sin will end one day. They are only for a ‘season’ or ‘for a while’. They only last for a short time. So it is with all earth’s pleasures!! Men value sin because they are in ignorance that it is followed by judgment. This the devil blinds men to!

2. Moses decided it was better to suffer affliction with God’s people. Affliction here and joy in heaven is better than a little joy here and hell for all eternity! Affliction has ever been linked to and is part of being a Christian. Remember Christ’s words. “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake,” Matthew 5:10-11. We should be glad to bear reproach for Christ. “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name,” Acts 5:41.

3. What persuaded him to make this choice? “Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.” He thought beyond today and considered the ‘day when the wages are paid’!  What makes any study worthwhile? A good examination result! There is a day of examination coming. How will you do?That is what the wise person ever keeps in mind. Remember again what the Lord Jesus said: “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad:for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you,” Matthew 5:12.