We all suffer for one reason or another, but suffering for the sake of Christ is special and different. When we suffer as Christians we are blessed and we should rejoice, because we are sharing in the sufferings of Christ, and suffering for the sake of Christ changes our perspective. We become more concerned about serving Him. We fully commit to standing up for our faith. We completely leave behind the way we were, and the unsaved world can’t understand why. They end up vilifying us, but God’s judgement on them is assured. After all, we all die and face the judgement. Judgement actually begins at the house of God, but we will be saved! The gospel was proclaimed is so that those who believe will end up in glory. Not so for those who refuse to believe.
So, we as believers should persevere, and we do that by:
- Being self-controlled and sober minded so that we can be devoted to prayer.
- Keeping our love for each other fervent, which means we will be willing to forgive.
- Showing hospitality to each other without complaining.
- Serving beside each other by using our spiritual gifts.
- Speaking God’s truth.
- Relying on God’s strength to care for each other, thereby glorifying Jesus Christ!
To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen!
Pastor Billington's Blog 