Not all suffering is a “fiery trial” from the Lord. If a professed Christian breaks the law and gets
into trouble or becomes a meddler in other people’s lives, then he ought to suffer! The fact that
we are Christians is not a guarantee that we escape the normal consequences of our misdeeds.
We may not be guilty of murder (though anger can be the same as murder in the heart), but what
about stealing, or meddling?
When Abraham, David, Peter, and other Bible “greats” disobeyed God, they suffered for it. Who
are we that we should escape? Let’s be sure we are suffering because we are Christians and not
because we are lawbreakers.
From the Bible: “Let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a
busybody in other men's matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed;
but let him glorify God on this behalf” (1 Peter 4:15-16).
For further study: Romans 8:17-26; 2 Corinthians 4:11-18.
Action assignment: Sing or read the song, “What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine.” Or sing
another song of your choice that ex presses joy. If you are suffering, ask God to show you why.
WARREN W. WIERSBE

www.backtothebible.in