The truth of the matter is that no one enjoys suffering. Suffering is uncomfortable, inconvenient, painful, and discouraging. In fact, humans take incredible measures to avoid suffering. Humanity will exert effort, spend money, and invoke creativity, going to nearly any length to remove potential suffering from life. However, Jesus and His disciples talked a great deal about suffering in the New Testament. The reason for this is that suffering is part of the Christian life. It is that way because suffering is one of the major tools that God uses to effect the sanctification of His children.
Peter wanted his churches to understand that there was a proper way for Christ-followers to suffer. He wanted them to glory in their sufferings for Jesus Christ, rather than being discouraged or defeated. Suffering for Christ is something that is a “gracious thing” in the eyes of God because it strips away worldliness and brings believers into a closer relationship with Him.
The truth of the matter is that no one enjoys suffering. Suffering is uncomfortable, inconvenient, painful, and discouraging. In fact, humans take incredible measures to avoid suffering. Humanity will exert effort, spend money, and invoke creativity, going to nearly any length to remove potential suffering from life. However, Jesus and His disciples talked a great deal about suffering in the New Testament. The reason for this is that suffering is part of the Christian life. It is that way because suffering is one of the major tools that God uses to effect the sanctification of His children.
Peter wanted his churches to understand that there was a proper way for Christ-followers to suffer. He wanted them to glory in their sufferings for Jesus Christ, rather than being discouraged or defeated. Suffering for Christ is something that is a “gracious thing” in the eyes of God because it strips away worldliness and brings believers into a closer relationship with Him.