On Suffering

In this world suffering is certain. The only question has to do with the nature of our suffering:

1 Peter 2:19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.

If you're like me most of your suffering has been due to your faults (sins). God calls His people to transform their suffering-from suffering for wrongdoing to suffering for well doing.

1 Peter 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

Again, suffering in this life is inevitable. But if by God's grace we finally begin to suffer for that which is good (the truths of the Bible) rather than that which is evil (our offenses) then our suffering becomes a meaningful and purposeful thing that has genuine lasting value.

1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

13 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.

14 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.

15 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.

16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.