3-12-15 Suffering for the Lord

20But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. (1 Peter 2:20,21)

Thoughts: This passage reminds us of how Jesus endured for us- He did good and was innocent but suffered any way.  This passage also says that enduring suffering for doing good is to our credit and commendable before God.  In fact, Peter even says, we are "called" to suffer for doing good.  Included in this is suffering at all.  The Christian who thinks they deserve to be comfortable at all times because they simply exist or because they are God's children, deceive themselves and set themselves up for disappointment with God and with their lot in life.  Suffering is a part of life. To find meaning in it is a Christian virtue.  Suffering can mold us, sharpen us (as iron sharpens iron), and cause us to call on God more.  It is hard to hear that suffering has value when we are in the middle of suffering, or when our hearts are breaking with grief.  But the alternative- that there is no meaning in suffering brings with it the idea that there is no meaning in life.  The cross, is the saddest act- an innocent suffering- but it is also the most meaningful act. 

Prayer: Lord, help me to endure as you did.  Help me to follow in your steps as my Lord.