Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer, and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2
Do you believe that since we are believers that God helps those who help themselves?
We think that since we are believers life will be easy. However, this thought is so wrong. Scripture is clear that the obedient will suffer, and that their suffering is actually a sign of their status as children of God.
Take a look at 1 Peter 2:18-25, “household slaves, submit with all fear to your masters, not only to the good and gentle but also to the cruel. For it brings favor if, mindful of God’s will, someone endures grief from suffering unjustly. For what credit is there if you sin and are punished, and you endure it? But when you do what is good and suffer, if you endure it, this brings favor with God. For you were called to this, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in his steps. He did not commit sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth; when he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when He was suffering, he did not threaten but entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that, having died to sins, we might live for righteousness; you have been healed by His wounds. For you were like sheep going astray, but you have now returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.” In verse 20, it says that when we do good and suffer and endure it brings favor with God. The next verse in 21 says that since we were called to this because Christ also suffered for us. As believers, we will suffer. Sometimes as Christians we think that because we are being obedient we will have a pain free life. That is wrong thinking. We also don’t want to compare ourselves to others suffering. Jesus didn’t have an easy life here on earth, why would we think we would as followers?
Jesus was obedient and suffered. Have you ever experienced being obedient to God and suffered? How did you react? Through suffering because of our obedience, we can learn many things. Our faith can grow and our relationship with God can grow deeper. We can witness the glory of God at work in our lives.
How will your attitude change during obedience to God and suffering?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your truth in your word. I pray that as we choose to obey you, we will trust you in our suffering. I pray that we will find joy while we are suffering. I pray that we will trust you in all things.
In Jesus Name
Amen
