S U F F E R I N G

I Peter 4:12

When have you most recently suffered as a result of competition?  Was that suffering physical, emotional or mental in nature?  Did it seem like you were alone in your suffering?  That’s a very common feeling, but I have good news for those in the midst of trials.

Peter wrote to his friends who were themselves undergoing intense suffering at chapter 4 and verse 12 of his first letter, “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you…”  Peter calls his friends to be mindful that they’re in good company when they suffer.

In the middle of suffering, whether from an injury or a disappointing loss, there is often a profound loneliness that comes to us.  We feel alienated when injury or illness sends us to the sideline and we’re unable to contribute to the team as we’re accustomed.  The whole situation seems very strange.

Peter’s encouragement is that we are not the victims of some strange misfortune.  He says that these trials can even make us better than we were.  What’s more, if we’ll listen closely, we can sense the Lord Jesus right there with us in the middle of the trial and working for our good.  We can have the assurance of his presence as we suffer any misfortune.

Play this day’s game with courage and great passion.  Play with full confidence in the Lord’s presence and His great love for you.   

Bible Reading Plan:
Proverbs 24:1-22
Isaiah 34-36