Suffering? No, Salvation.

Christ suffered here on earth. Now you must be ready to suffer as he did, because suffering shows that you have stopped sinning. It means you have turned from your own desires and want to obey God for the rest of your life. You have already lived long enough like people who don’t know God. You were immoral and followed your evil desires. You went around drinking and partying and carrying on. In fact, you even worshiped disgusting idols. Now your former friends wonder why you have stopped running around with them, and they curse you for it. But they will have to answer to God, who judges the living and the dead. The good news has even been preached to the dead,[a] so that after they have been judged for what they have done in this life, their spirits will live with God. Everything will soon come to an end. So be serious and be sensible enough to pray. 1 Peter 4:1-7

Suffering? No, Salvation.

As baby Christians there is so much challenge and difficulty in our suffering.

This is a reminder not to let the test lead you to sin.

You may not be capable of enjoying life in the same way as your friends.

But keep in mind that you are set apart.

When they see you they see great blessings and favor.

They may not admit it, but they want to know your secret.

They want to know why they have to climb ladders and run through obstacles while you simply float through life and have everything handed to you.

If they ask for your secret you can tell them.

It’s the power of empty hands.

We have no grip on this life, instead we find joy in the promise of eternity.

Consider how much greater your joy is as it proceeds through the ages without waver.

You don’t have to adorn yourself with external embellishment for it.

You don’t have to speak evil for it.

You don’t have to go out and find it.

You sit and you wait and you receive it directly from the mighty hand of God.

You find peace and joy in waiting.

And you don’t get wrapped up in the works of the flesh.

You have a desire? You don’t let it rule you.

You simply ask God. And wait.

And you are always left amazed at the wonders sowing patience and trust for harvest.