Tonight's blog post isn't glamorous. It isn't frilly or of great detail. It is simply the words I read tonight in my bible study and the thoughts that came to me while I read. Why write about it? It's important. Critically important. Important enough to share with anyone who has an ear to hear it.
Tonight I read the book of 1 Peter. This entire book contains some lessons of great magnitude but specifically, it contains words and scripture about suffering in Christ. What does this mean? Well, if you are a Christian, you will at some point endure suffering and not the suffering that first comes to mind. You will suffer because of your following of Christ. You will suffer because of good works and well doing instead of evil doing. (Chapter 3 Verse 17-18). Why would someone suffer when they are directly within the will of God???
You will suffer because of what 1 Peter 4:4 tells us. "Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of not, speaking evil of you." You will endure suffer and slander because people will not understand your commitment to following the will of God. Simply put, they will single you out, label you "strange" and not understand why you choose to abstain from wordly obedience or fleshly lusts.
1 Peter 4:16 tells us however that if anyone suffers as a Christian DO NOT BE ASHAMED. Instead glorify God! Do not be discouraged but continue to be examples to the flock (5:3). He will bestow grace upon you and reward you for your humility.
Those of you who feel mocked, betrayed,and abandoned....rejoice! Do not be ashamed, but be of good spirit. Keep the faith and continue the fight. :)