Suffering

The following is a recent devotional we read and wanted to share with you!  We all have endured some struggle in our pathway during our time here on Earth.  May this uplift you today!  More importantly, make it make you pause to consider...


"For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him."

                                                                          Philippians 1:29



Suffering is not something strange. Actually, it is not even a tragedy, but a favor. "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps" (1 Peter 2:21).


According to Peter, suffering is our calling. It is even a favor. Peter and John were flogged, which is a terrible punishment. But when they were sent away with bloody backs, they rejoiced "because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name" (Acts 5:41).

Peter and John considered it a special honor to be flogged, as if they realized that they had received something which was not granted to everyone.

A Christian must be found worthy to suffer for the Lord. Such suffering is a calling, a favor and an honor.