A Call To Suffering

No one likes to suffer – but we all go through it. Jesus even told His followers to expect it (John 15:20)! Following Him comes at a price. You could be misunderstood, mocked, even punished… simply for doing the right thing. So don’t waste your time trying to avoid it. Instead, ask yourself: What is God teaching me in the midst of this suffering?

LIFE APPLICATION QUESTIONS 

• Reflect on 1 Peter 2:20-21. How can you follow Jesus’ example in enduring the trials that life will surely bring your way?
• Think of the times of grief, persecution or suffering that you’ve endured in your life. How did you get through them? Looking back, can you see God in the picture? Could you see Him at the time?
• It’s one thing to know that suffering will come. It’s another thing to go through it. If you’re enduring suffering today, meditate on John 16:33. Draw strength from the fact that Jesus is with you – and He has already won the battle that you face. 
• Think of the people you know who are going through a time of suffering. Lift them up to God in prayer. As you do, ask Him to give you opportunities to encourage and strengthen them in His love.