It may not be a comfortable thought, but we are called to suffer. Called to endure injustice graciously. Called to experience ridicule, insults and threats for doing the right thing, for living according to truth from God’s Word. Called to follow Christ’s example.
When we refuse to repay evil with evil, to insult or threaten those who insult and threaten us, we live as Jesus lived. And what will God do?
- God calls us to live counter-culturally, in other words to go against the norm. “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:12).
- God shows us that we actually combat evil by doing good. “For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people” (1 Peter 2:15).
- God notices and shows His favor to those who suffer for good. “For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God” (1 Peter 2:19).
- God tells us that living righteously confronts and convicts those who do wrong. “But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander” (1 Peter 3:15-16).
So, do good regardless of the outcome ― for to this you were called.
God, I hear you calling me to endure and to do what is right, no matter what. Give me strength through your Holy Spirit. Amen.
Go Deeper ― Spend some time thinking about the truth that you were called to suffer and called to do good despite injustice. How does knowing that God called us to this and that Jesus gave us an example to follow, help you face suffering and injustice?
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