For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; — Philippians 1:29

Suffer! How is it a privilege to suffer? If it’s not for Jesus, it’s not. Remember how happy the first apostles were when they were chosen to suffer for the sake of the name? (cf. Acts 5:41) He went through pain for us so that we could be saved. When we go through hard times for the sake of Christ and his Kingdom, we show that our faith is real and we encourage others to do the same. So few people have anything worth living for, dying for, or going through pain for. We can do all three of these things because our lives will be wrapped up in Jesus’ victory. (cf. Rom. 8:32-39; 1 Cor. 15)

 

Thought

Suffer! How is it a privilege to suffer? If it’s not for Jesus, it’s not. Remember how happy the first apostles were when they were chosen to suffer for the sake of the name? (cf. Acts 5:41) He went through pain for us so that we could be saved. When we go through hard times for the sake of Christ and his Kingdom, we show that our faith is real and we encourage others to do the same. So few people have anything worth living for, dying for, or going through pain for. We can do all three of these things because our lives will be wrapped up in Jesus’ victory. (cf. Rom. 8:32-39; 1 Cor. 15)

 

Prayer

Give me strength, O God! Help me stay true to you when things are hard and strong when I’m being persecuted, having a hard time, or suffering. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.