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“Sharing in the Sufferings of Christ”

Thoughts for Today:

Although, as believers, we have been redeemed and delivered from many of the problems that are the result of sin and its power, we are still called to share in the sufferings of Christ. (Colossians 1:24: "Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ?s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.") It's the point Paul makes in our passage today, when he says, "...the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives...? However, we should not assume these "afflictions" are sickness, poverty, etc. (as some have taught). Rather, they are described as the fellowship of suffering we encounter for doing the will of God.

For example:

2 Timothy 3:12: "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

1 Peter 4:16: "However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name."

1 Peter 4:19: "So then, those who suffer according to God?s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good."

When we live godly lives, persecution and suffering will follow -- that's the bad news. The good news is these trials of our faith will result in praise, honor, and glory at the appearance of Jesus. (1 Peter 1:6-7: "In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith ? of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire ? may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.")

Questions to Ponder:

Have you ever been persecuted because you are a Christian? In what ways do you demonstrate your faith? Is it in your speech, generosity, faithfulness, service, or prayer? We know there is a pretty good chance that if we step out in faith to live godly lives that we will be persecuted. Are you ready?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.