SUFFERING IS PART OF THE PLAN

COUNT YOURSELF FORTUNATE

If you find yourself suffering because you are a Christian, count yourself fortunate. It shows that the Spirit of God and His glory is in you and others have noticed.  If you were suffering as a result of your own fault or because you broke the law then you should be concerned.

1 Peter 4:12-16 (KJV)

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

Here are some questions to consider:

• Are you a changed and born again believer?
• How Ready are you to suffer for Christ?
• What are some of the sufferings that you are experiencing?
• Are you suffering as a result of your actions?
• What is your attitude towards the suffering?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE PRIVILEGE OF SUFFERING WITH CHRIST

You have been given the privilege not only to believe in Christ but also suffer for His sake. There is no getting around it for all those who decide to change their lives will experience suffering by those who do not love Christ.

If you are godly, you will suffer - 2 Timothy 3:12 (KJV)

"Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."

You should not be ashamed to suffer for Him, but rather you should be happy to know that you are recognized by others as His child.

God has called you to partake in His suffering so you can be a part of the reward of glory. The world will hate you because they hated Him. As long as you remain in Christ you will have to endure the sufferings of those who hate him.  

Think about:

What are some of the sufferings that Jesus endured?

What are some of the sufferings that you may have to endure?

What are some of them that you see similar to that of Christ?

As you go through the sufferings be happy to know that you are bearing it all for your love for God and feel privileged to be a part of the glorious reward.

Remember, once you suffer for Christ and not as a result of your faults/failure to live godly, you should rejoice. Know that suffering for Christ is evidence that the spirit of glory and of God is within you. Don't be ashamed, or think it strange, but know that when His glory is revealed you will have exceeding joy.  It will be worth the journey.

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel