REMAIN FAITHFUL EVEN IN SUFFERING
Philippians 1:27
27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel
1:29 Paul considered it a privilege to suffer for Christ. We do not by nature consider suffering a privilege. When we suffer, if we faithfully represent Christ, our message and example affect us and others for good (see Acts 5:41). Suffering has these additional benefits: (1) It takes our eyes off of earthly comforts; (2) it weeds out superficial believers; (3) it strengthens the faith of those who endure; (4) it serves as an example to others who may follow us. When we suffer for our faith, it doesn’t mean that we have done something wrong. The opposite is often true—it verifies that we have been faithful. Use suffering to build your character. Don’t resent it or let it tear you down. Tyndale. Life Application Study Bible NIV.
You know that some of us think we suffer, but so far, I haven’t seen anyone suffer like Paul, and the early church disciples and apostles did. Yes in today’s world we are starting to see Christian persecution and even the evil of people rising in other countries and now in the USA, the church shooting and the law even trying to suppress Christian rights. But we should know that all of this must come before Christ returns.
ON THE WAY HOME WALK WITH JESUS and know that suffering for Christ will be rewarded with riches far beyond anything that we suffered here on earth.
onthewayhomeministries.org by RICHARD DEAN BROOKS
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