- Joined
- Oct 26, 2007
- Messages
- 12,538
There are many levels of suffering: from getting an elbow in the gut all the way up to stepping on a Lego brick. Some suffering is accidentally self-inflicted (e.g., the Lego brick), while other kinds happen because of other people.
When suffering is a result of sin, it’s an opportunity for believers to learn their lesson, repent, and avoid future sinful situations. But when suffering is a result of standing up for Christ, of refusing to sin, it’s a privilege.
By suffering for Jesus’ sake, you get to experience an aspect of His life on earth. Also, persecution for your faith is evidence your faith is real.
Matthew 5:10-12 says, “God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.”
You may not feel like your suffering is a privilege when you’re in the midst of it, but ultimately it will end in a great reward.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for allowing me to experience Your life in joy and in suffering.
When suffering is a result of sin, it’s an opportunity for believers to learn their lesson, repent, and avoid future sinful situations. But when suffering is a result of standing up for Christ, of refusing to sin, it’s a privilege.
By suffering for Jesus’ sake, you get to experience an aspect of His life on earth. Also, persecution for your faith is evidence your faith is real.
Matthew 5:10-12 says, “God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.”
You may not feel like your suffering is a privilege when you’re in the midst of it, but ultimately it will end in a great reward.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for allowing me to experience Your life in joy and in suffering.
