S.O.S.

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

1 Peter 4:12-14

Have you ever been insulted for being a Christian? I doubt you have openly. But maybe you have experienced a different kind of subtle suffering. It’s that reminder of missing out. It’s family events on a Sunday that you said no to. It’s friends at the pub you can’t meet.

Telling people you are heading to Church on a Sunday isn’t always the easiest thing to say. And missing out on things isn’t often fun. We shouldn’t be surprised that there is a level of suffering to our faith. And, the way things are going, we shouldn’t be surprised if it gets worse. If subtle suffering turns into not so subtle.

I know it’s not a very happy prospect. But let’s remember today. As we miss out on things. As people look down on us like we are wasting our time. And if things should get harder than they are. Let’s remember that we can rejoice. 

For a few reasons. Firstly, our suffering reminds us of what Christ suffered for us. Secondly, God is glorified in our perseverance in the midst of suffering. Thirdly, we are blessed in that even though we suffer - God is with us. Finally, remember that for God’s people there is a light at the end of the tunnel of suffering.

For Today:

• What suffering have you experienced for your faith?
• What is one blessing that you need to reflect on this week?
• How are you going at putting your hope in the glory to come?

Pray:

• Praise the Father for His love and comfort of His people. 
• Give thanks for Jesus Christ who suffered the agonies of death for our sake. 
• Ask God for His Holy Spirit to help you and others in our sufferings to look forward to the glory to come.