RPG Adults
REJOICING CHRISTIANS
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
1 Peter 4:12-15
Psalm 33:1-12
“…be merciful unto me
according to thy word.”
REJOICING CHRISTIANS
Once again, the Apostle returned to the major theme of 1 Peter which is the suffering of God’s people. We are reminded that it is not a strange thing that difficult trials beset believers as they go through life (1 Pet 4:12). It is to be expected that the world would hate the believer and the righteousness presented in the Gospel message (1 John 3:13). The Lord taught the disciples that since the world hated Him, it would also hate those who followed Him (John 15:18-19).
The scene has been set. The Christian pilgrim’s life will proclaim the message of God’s righteousness and will upset those round about. Some will, through the preaching of the Gospel, turn to Christ and be saved. But others will rail at the truth and do all in their power to quiet its presentation through the Christian’s life. Thus Scripture warns us that to live a godly life will bring persecution (2 Tim 3:12).
This suffering for the cause of Christ brings blessings into the Christian’s life. Going through temptation points out our own weaknesses and teaches us to rely on the Lord (2 Cor 12:10). Our faithfulness in times of persecution causes our spiritual perseverance to grow, giving us more patience and making us mature in the faith (James 1:2-4). It is a joy for Christians to suffer for Christ (Acts 5:41). And in that day when we see Christ in all His glory, we will have greater joy (1 Pet 4:13) The world may insult the Christian pilgrim, but at such times a special blessing from God rests upon each suffering saint (1 Pet 4:14; Matt 5:11).
A final exhortation is given us in 1 Peter 4:15. We should be sure our suffering is for righteous living and not for improper action. And such action as meddling in the affairs of others, i.e. being a busybody, is included in these forbidden activities.
It is a great shame to suffer for wrongdoing which brings dishonour to Jesus’ name and hinders the cause of the Gospel, but on the other hand it is a great joy to suffer for Him.
THOUGHT: Am I willing to suffer for Christ?
PRAYER: Father, may I always rejoice in Thee!