Thursday, November 27, 2008
1 Peter 4:12-19
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And
“If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. (ESV)
by Angie Osborn
Paul Claudel is quoted as having said, “Jesus did not come to explain away suffering or remove it. He came to fill it with his presence.” There is a lot of truth in that statement. As Christians, we are not guaranteed an easy road with no suffering along the way. We are however, guaranteed that we will not have to take the road of suffering alone. We will always have Christ’s presence in our midst. At times, he may walk along side us; at times, he may carry us; but he will always be there. This is hope: Jesus will not leave you nor forsake you. This is peace: he will carry your burdens. This is joy: he is present, even in suffering.
Copyright Information
Daily Bible Meditations are taken from The Helping Hand,a Sabbath School student quarterly for youth and adults. Copyright © 2008, Seventh Day Baptist Board of Christian Education, Inc.
Scripture quotations marked "ESV" are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service .
