ByI’m from Africa, specifically Ghana. And during every harmattan season, many people complain of how hot and hazy the weather is. Over time, with the development of air conditioners, many people are able to work in cool environments. Although I personally like this experience, I once sat down to think about it and how it relates to Christian’s lives.
Many people come to Jesus without thinking that they were not only saved to enjoy God’s salvation but also to suffer for Him (see Philippians 1:29). So when persecutions arise in their faith journey, they don’t like it at all. Meanwhile, Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:12 (NKJV) that,
“… all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.”
As a child of God, let it be in your consciousness that the fact that you’re born again means you’re odd. And that oddness isn’t because of anything wrong you’ve done; it’s just because God has chosen you. For that sake, you will be persecuted. But when it happens, instead of bowing down in shame, praise God for bearing Christ’s sufferings in your body. Let’s see what Peter said about this in 1 Peter 4:15-16
Verse 15
“But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.”
1 Peter 4:15 (NKJV)
According to the verse above, not all sufferings befit the believer. For example, walking in God’s love won’t make you steal. So, if, as a believer, you steal, then when you’re caught, and you suffer for it, that doesn’t glorify God.
God hasn’t made you a murderer, thief, evildoer or meddler in people’s lives. In fact, He said through Apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 4:12 that believers should aspire to lead a quiet life, minding their own businesses. Sometimes, I wonder why people are able to leave all the troubles they are going through and gossip about someone else for hours.
When persecution happens, instead of bowing down in shame, praise God for bearing Christ’s sufferings in your body.
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Friend, advise yourself on the kinds of people around you. Focus on fulfilling your divine assignment, and God will bring the right relationships into your life.
Verse 16
“Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.”
1 Peter 4:16 (NKJV)
Now, after purging your life from wrong associations which may lead you to unnecessary suffering, what next? It is to live a godly life in this crooked generation. Now, when you start living as such, and people start to persecute you for standing strong in Christ, that is worthwhile suffering before the face of God. It’s such an honour to suffer for the Lord’s sake. Why? Because through it, you’ll know Him better and prove to the unbelievers that the genuineness of your faith surpasses that of gold and silver, which perishes.
Praise God for bearing Christ’s sufferings. And may the Lord strengthen you to champion His course for your life. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
