Scripture Text: 1 Peter 2:18-25
For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.
1 Peter 2:21
Enduring suffering, especially when it is unjust, goes to the heart of the Christian life and how we respond to difficulties in relationships, at work, and in every aspect. Not all of us Christians have a boss or master that is godly or respects the faith we have in Christ, but we are to follow them regardless of whether we agree with them, as long as what they're asking is not against the will of God.
We can apply the principles of respect and obedience in the workplace and in our daily lives. Regardless of the behavior of those in authority over us, we are called to maintain an attitude of respect. Apostle Peter recognized that enduring unjust suffering is commendable. He differentiates the punishment of someone who is doing the will of God from the one who is being punished because of an evil deed, which is rightful for an evil act to be punished. Christ is the perfect example of someone who was punished wrongly for doing the will of God. This world will never fully accept the Lord Jesus Christ and God's command because this world is covered with injustice and evil.
As the passage focuses on the Lord Jesus Christ, it emphasizes that we should follow the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, the sinless One, who faced great suffering without retaliation. He entrusted himself to God, recognizing God's ultimate justice. When faced with suffering or persecution, we are encouraged to follow Him in all aspects of our lives without reservations for ourselves.
The passage reminds us that Christ took upon himself our sins on the cross, offering us ultimate redemption. Through His wounds, we are spiritually healed. The suffering we experience in this world can remind us of the healing power of Christ's sacrifice and the promise of redemption. Apostle Peter ends the passage by reminding us that we were once like lost sheep but were found by our Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
Reflect
1. How do you typically respond to difficult or unjust situations in your life, especially when they involve mistreatment or suffering?
2. Can you recall a time when you endured suffering with grace and patience? What did you learn from that experience?
Remember
We will always receive afflictions while we are still here on earth because this world will never accept Christ, and so we may not be accepted by it either. As long as we have God's approval, we know that we have nothing to worry about, even though we are in the midst of trials or suffering. We have someone who experienced it first, whom we are following.
Pray
We pray to our merciful Father, who sees our afflictions and trials here on earth. Grant us strength to go through these testings so that they will produce steadfastness in us and give glory to our Father. Keep our eyes looking only to you, our only hope. We rest in your unchanging grace and mercy, which propels us to do good for your glory alone. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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