1 PETER 1:6
FIX YOUR EYES ON JESUS
The apostle Peter understood suffering from identifying with Jesus and his years of serving the fledgling church. Sometimes his suffering was self-induced, caused by his own mistakes.
The simple, rugged fisherman failed when he took his eyes off Jesus while walking on the water. Peter even denied Christ during the last few hours before the crucifixion.
KEEP YOUR FAITH MOVING FORWARD
Despite all this, Jesus never forsook Peter, and God used
these experiences to mold him.
(See: HEBREWS 13:5)
When we endure pain, most of us tend to doubt God's love, or even question our salvation. Peter reminds us that suffering isn't a punishment from God!
KEEP PRAYING AND TALKING TO JESUS
Nonetheless, it does seem that suffering leads us to pray more whether out of anger, protest or petition. And thus, in the midst of tragedy, our relationship with God can improve.
You can be assured God understands our frustrations, and yet He never tires of hearing from us. Above all, Peter wants us to remember that we are not alone.
CHRIST'S UNDERSTANDS PAIN, AGONY, AND LONLINESS
When we cry out to Christ, He understands our pain and weaknesses because He endured the same thing.
While others may be out and about living their lives to the fullest, it can get pretty lonely when we are forced to have tests, treatments, and doctors appointments or even hospital stays. We are assured that Jesus is with us, He will never forsake us and nothing can separate us from His love!
SUFFERING ISN'T FOREVER
It may seem like it... but suffering does not last forever. Not only do we follow Christ's example by suffering, but we also follow in His resurrection. One wonderful day, God will raise us up out of all our suffering.
BELOW:
BE STILL MY SOUL (IN YOU I REST) - Kari Jobe
AND THROUGH IT ALL - Andrae Crouch
BE STILL THROUGH IT ALL - Andrae Crouch