1 Peter 2:18-25
No man desires to suffer, nor endure the hardships of life, but suffering is inevitable. Although trials and tough times aren’t fun experiences, they aren’t all weighed the same, in the eyes of God. Many who are going through hard seasons, are only reaping the harvest of their own faults. We often cry, moan, and become bitter from things we brought on ourselves. God sees our struggles, but set instructions in place to help us avoid self-inflicted burdens. I’m guilty of this very thing; wanting others to have compassion toward me when I experienced trying seasons, but most of them were brought forth from my own mistakes. Through repentance, a renewed mind, and a refocus on God’s purpose, I was able to avoid repeating some of the errors of my past. On the contrary, suffering for righteousness sake, is acceptable to God. There are many who endure suffering, but at the expense of someone else. When these persons suffer while keeping God in their hearts, He counts this act as thankworthy. Dealing with nasty bosses, disrespectful spouses, or even irate customers at the grocery store with the right spirit, will always get the attention of the Father. “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” (Proverbs 16:7 KJV). Suffering while maintaining the right attitude and behavior, shows that a person understands the Christian walk, because there was One who suffered for all men, yet did literally nothing to deserve it. Jesus took on the sins of all mankind, and endured a horrendous beating, but knowing that His suffering would save you, gave Him all the motivation He needed to see it through.
“Tough times don’t last, but tough Christians do.” – Ell
Ell's Daily Inspirations 