SEP 26

1 Peter 2:23
Memorise 1 Peter 2:23
“Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?”

Another element in Christ’s sufferings which we are to follow, is that we are to commit ourselves to God’s care. In the text for today, we learn that amidst his trial and sufferings, Jesus allowed His heavenly Father to be in control of the situation. Though Jesus had complete power to lay down His life and to take it up again, He allowed the Father to take charge. He knew that His innocence will be taken care of by a loving and just God. His focus was on how He can glorify the Father. Because He did that, Christ was able to bring a thief to faith, find a home for His mother and also forgive his enemies – all these as He hung dying on the cross. By faith, Jesus committed himself to God. He knew that His heavenly Father had perfect knowledge, perfect judgment, perfect power and would handle the situation perfectly. In His perfect time, He would vindicate Christ, His beloved Son, and be able to raise Him up from the grave. He never thought to take matters into his own hands, or to do anything to alleviate the sufferings or to take vengeance on His enemies.

With our imperfect and fleshly nature, surely it is foolishness to take matters into our own hands. It is not only wiser but far more glorious to let God have His way and His time to work things out for our greater blessing. Jesus was vindicated when He rose from the dead and ascended into heaven and one day He will come in the fullness of His glory to become the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Dear teen, it is a myth that life must always be one of health, wealth and happiness. This world is not our home. We must expect some sufferings and even to be unfairly treated. The most important lesson is that you be steadfast in your faith and commit each stage of your life to God. We do not trust God when we fret, fume and fuss. To complain and to moan and groan when we are faced with disappointment and adversity also shows unbelief and a rebellious nature, like the Israelites wandering in the wilderness after their escape from bondage in Egypt. God knows each tear we shed and each hair that falls from our head. God is aware of everything that happens in our lives and He cares. It matters to Him whether His child is happy or sad. When you are unjustly treated, commit your innocence to the Lord, as Jesus did. Do not take revenge. He will fight for you and always judge righteously.

Thought: When there are no storms, life has no depth.
Prayer: Eternal God, make me to see that all things work for good to them who love Thee and that sufferings can be a blessing.