Most Christians, especially in America, don't expect to suffer for doing good, its the last thing on their mind. They read the scriptures about Christ and His disciples and they think "that will never happen to me." In most cases their right, being whipped, beaten, spit on, and threatened with death isn't likely to happen in America. However, that day could arrive within a few generations at the rate our nation is declining and becoming more godless than ever. It's no secret, just open your eyes and read the news. Peter told believers to rejoice in the suffering they experience for being followers of Christ. Peter told believers this "If you are ridiculed for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you" (1 Peter 4:14). However in the next verse he commanded them to ensure their suffering was from obedience and not from doing evil "None of you, however, should suffer as a murderer (hatred in your heart towards another person), a thief, an evildoer, or a meddler" (1 Peter 4:15). Believers can sometimes conduct themselves hypocritically (something Jesus hated and condemned), becoming instruments of wickedness instead of being conduits of righteousness. Believers could also needlessly align themselves with causes and activities that annoy and irate unbelievers. The term meddler used by Peter (4:15) refers to someone who interferes in things that are unrelated to his or her calling. I would encourage believers in our culture today to guard their hearts and minds, to include who they spend time with and who they align themselves with, i.e., "don't be mismatched with unbelievers." You will conform and you will loose any zeal you have for Christ.
Ultimately, when you begin to do what Christ has commanded you will suffer. You will love Him more than your career or your own life. Christ calls you to die in order to live as follower of His, we must never forget that.
Be encouraged by Peter's words "But if anyone suffers as a "Christian," he should not be ashamed but should glorify God in having that name" (1 Peter 4:16).
Stand upon His teachings and remember it's an honor to suffer for Christ.
Ultimately, when you begin to do what Christ has commanded you will suffer. You will love Him more than your career or your own life. Christ calls you to die in order to live as follower of His, we must never forget that.
Be encouraged by Peter's words "But if anyone suffers as a "Christian," he should not be ashamed but should glorify God in having that name" (1 Peter 4:16).
Stand upon His teachings and remember it's an honor to suffer for Christ.
No comments:
Post a Comment