SCRIPTURE: 1 Peter 4:7-19
OBSERVATION:
The whole letter speaks of suffering, and here Peter puts it in the context of the “last days” (the end of all things). I notice how this does not lead Peter to panic, but rather to prayer. What an amazing response to suffering, it leads to a renewed passion to pray, to serve, and witness!
Peter reminds us that suffering is a normal part of following Jesus, it is a participation with Him in His suffering. Jesus reminded His followers of the same thing (Matthew 24:9, Luke 21:10-19).
How we respond to suffering is itself a witness. If we respond with love and humility, using our gifts to serve others, then God will be praised. But if our response is inappropriate, then we will still suffer, but not for good reason.
APPLICATION:
We have become comfortable in our relationship with the world, so the thought of suffering in this way is hard for us to appreciate it. If we did suffer, we WOULD think it was strange! We would also find it very hard to rejoice in that suffering. Peter suggests that this suffering is the beginning of judgment (it begins with us), not sure what this means! Anyone have any ideas here?
As Christ-followers we need to discern whether the suffering we are experiencing is for the sake of Jesus, and not because of stupid or immoral choices that we make. If I am ignorant, rude or judgmental for Jesus, and people react against me, this is NOT participating in the sufferings of Christ.
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to be a good representative of Who You are, and of what You are for. If people are offended, may it not be because of my stupidity or cruelty. Help me to love humbly and generously, like You! And please strengthen me when I do suffer for You! Amen!