Trials and Suffering as a Christian

Monday, September 7, 2009: 1 Peter 1:6–7

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ
Why will our troubles seem like fire? No testing of the genuine faith of a Christian is without anguish.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009: 1 Peter 2:20–21

For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps
Does God commend those who suffer for doing what is good? No, God commends those who take such suffering patiently.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009: 1 Peter 3:14 –15

But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear
Why are sufferings and threats different to a Christian? A threat is for the future, and one never knows how God can intervene.

Thursday, September 10, 2009: 1 Peter 4:15–16

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.
How can shame become glory? Shame, heaped on us by non-believers is commendable by God and rewarded in eternity. Those who suffer shamefully should glorify God for the opportunity of an eternity.

Friday, September 11, 2009: 1 Peter 5:10

But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
What is the aftermath of suffering for Christ Jesus? God’s grace will build you up.

Enduring Suffering

Monday, March 30, 2009: 2 Timothy 2:3–4

You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.

Is enduring hardship part of being a Believer in Christ? Hardship can happen to anyone; enduring hardship to serve the Lord Jesus Christ is pleasing to Him.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009: 2 Timothy 2:8–9

Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained.

Will the world call you evil if you express your belief in Christ? Yes, they still do so and will restrain you by ‘legal’ means. You will be able to express your beliefs in spite of restrictions.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009: 2 Timothy 4:5

But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

What is God’s purpose in you enduring affliction? Do your God given work while enduring affliction and in spite of it.

Thursday, April 2, 2009: James 5:10–11

My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

Why is Job an example of enduring suffering? The reward for Job and us is an eternal reward, unlike the suffering, which is temporary.

Friday, April 3, 2009: James 5:13

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms.

Who truly understands your suffering? The Lord Jesus Christ does: His suffering was for your sin.