1 Peter 4:19 If you suffer for obeying God, you must have complete faith in your faithful Creator and keep on doing right.
This morning, as I read commentary on this verse, there was talk of missionaries suffering for their Savior in foreign lands under harsh conditions, which is definitely applicable, but I feel like even those of us who are never called in that way can learn from this text. A line from John Piper’s commentary resonated deeply: “If we become embittered at life and the pain it deals us, we are not preparing to rejoice at the revelation of Christ’s glory.”
Col 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters….
We don’t have to be foreign missionaries to understand the pain life deals us. If we are simply trying to follow God’s will for our lives, we are sure to run headlong into pain at some point—the loss of a loved one far too soon, the difficult transition to a new job or routine, the doubts and fears that come from physically relocating, the heartache of betrayal, anger, bitterness, and trying to let it go because it is not of Him nor from Him. Suffering happens as easily here as abroad, but I think the secret to finding His joy is two-fold: 1. Seeking, earnestly, His will for your life, and 2. Seeking to draw closer to Him and trust Him more deeply, no matter the situation.
1 Cor 10:31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Lord, Thank You for this day, this scripture, and the knowledge that we can seek You and serve You anywhere. Thank You for wanting the best for us, for wanting us to grow and mature in our faith, in our relationship with You. When we face trials in this life, help us to seek You and to rejoice as we draw closer to You. No matter our circumstances, help us to seek You, always, with our whole hearts. Amen.
Jer 29:13 You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.