Endurance

“For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” 1 Peter 2:19-21 (NIV)

Suffering. What a horrid word! Suffering is such a hideous experience. There is nothing good one can say about it. Oh, how I wish it did not exist! But every human being knows that it does. We do not wish it on others. We do not welcome it when it comes our way. We certainly do not confess its power over us. Instead, we reject it and humbly yield to the power of Christ who is our Savior and Deliverer.

According to the Apostle Peter, suffering should occur only for the right reasons. What could possibly be a correct reason for suffering? It must be due to one’s faith as a Christian. It should never be due to one’s misdeeds or misconduct. In fact, Peter claims that suffering due to such misconduct is actually brought on oneself and therefore justified. This puts a fine point on the issue.

Peter’s understanding of suffering was somewhat different than the 21st century understanding of it. Moderns focus on the pain and sorrow. Peter’s idea of suffering points toward faithful endurance. Moderns focus on self-pity. Peter points toward Christ and his example of enduring for our sake. Moderns want to blame God. Peter wanted God’s commendation.

Christ endured pain and sorrow on the Cross for us. His example that we are to follow is his example of enduring. Most likely, we will never face a crucifixion cross, but in our lives we are confronted by horrible obstacles that tempt us to give up. Christ was not guilty! It is easy to see how he was tempted to refuse the Cross. Aren’t you glad that Gethsemane came before Calvary? But Christ humbled himself and endured the suffering so that we would have eternal life.

Suffering is not something we choose or chase after. But when it comes, what will be our attitudes? We are born again by the living and enduring Word of God! (1 Peter 1:23). We are the special people of God and we enjoy his mercy! (1 Peter 2:10). Should we not count it a privilege to endure pain and sorrow in order to glorify Him? Perhaps we should begin with the pain of crucifying our attitudes.

Dear Father, thank you for our Lord's example of endurance. Empower us to glorify you in the midst of our suffering with steadfast endurance. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Endure today for the glory of God,