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JOYFUL IN SUFFERING
MONDAY, JULY 4
Philippians 1:12-14

1 Peter 1:6-8

 

“Thou hast commanded us

to keep thy precepts diligently.”

 

JOYFUL IN SUFFERING
 
There are times when difficulties come into the life of the believer or the local church for which there seems to be no good purpose. In such times it is important for us to remember that God has a purpose in everything that happens to the Christian. As children of the Almighty God, we are under His providential care. Whether we can see what God is doing or not, He is working in and through His people to accomplish His higher purpose.
 
In the early days of the gospel, the young churches greatly depended on the Apostle Paul’s ministry. When he was imprisoned, the church was without their much-needed teacher. There was no question that God could have freed him. In fact, at an earlier time, God had freed Paul from prison (Acts 16:25-26). But this time it was a part of God’s purpose and plan that he remained imprisoned. What the church may have viewed as a disaster was used of God for great blessing (Phil 1:12).
 
Paul, fastened in prison between two guards, witnessed constantly of God’s saving grace. His testimony was spread by the guards among all those who dwelt in Caesar’s palace (Phil 1:13). Historians tell us that within 100 years after Paul’s imprisonment, more than half of those who lived in Rome were believers. No doubt that great turning to the Lord began with Paul’s imprisonment (Phil 1:13).
 
When the Apostle was first imprisoned, many believers seemed to lose heart. But when they heard that despite Paul’s situation, he continued to have a good testimony, they too regained their former zeal. Many believers then were bold to live for God despite the threat of persecution. When we, like Paul, have confidence in God’s care, we are not only able to joyfully live for Him in times of difficulty, we also encourage other Christians to do so.
 
THOUGHT: Why did God not free Paul from prison?
PRAYER: Father, may I always believe that all things are possible with Thee, and may I always trust in Thee.

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