Are you suffering for Christ or for your own misdeeds? (Not referring to sickness here)

There are two kinds of suffering. One, where we suffer for the sake of Christ, another because of our own wilful ignorance, disobedience and wicked ways. (1 Peter 4:12-19)

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But 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. (1 Peter 4:14,15)

Are you suffering for Jesus?

The world hated Jesus, so believers do not find it strange to be hated by the world too. In fact, believers are happy when they are persecuted for Christ. While hated by this world, our endurance to suffering for the sake of the gospel will reap a reward - the crown of life (James 1:12).

Peter encouraged believers in the faith saying we must suffer tribulation to enter into the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22). Paul writing to Timothy confirms that the godly will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12).

What did Jesus say?

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (Matthew 5:10-12)

We suffer for Christ because we love Him dearly. God’s word which is perfect and true is our delight. We have seen and experienced the light of life. We are not ashamed because what we are living for today is eternal. Renew your hope in Christ today! Jesus is coming soon, praise God and amen.