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