Trusting

1 Pet. 4:19

Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. 

It has been granted to believers to suffer [Phil. 1:29-30], a grant, a gift. What kind of thinking is that? We all embrace the idea of growing up in to Christ who is our head and of being conformed to His image, but I think we forget how that process takes place. It is through following the steps of Christ in suffering that growth begins and matures. Consequently, Peter is encouraging believers about this suffering they may be in now or soon will be experiencing. He says, Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though some strange thing were happening to you. Notice Peter does not say 'if' but 'when'. It is a surety. Suffering will happen so just remember it is supposed to! Notice he describes it as a fiery trial. That describes a fair degree of intensity! Still instead of bemoaning our fate, Peter says to rejoice in it. Rejoice? How can that be? Maybe endure but rejoicing takes it a step farther. We can rejoice now because when Jesus comes, we will be glad when His glory is revealed.

As long as we are insulted for the name of Christ, it is good. But if we suffer for doing evil, that is an entirely different matter. If we are following the dictates of our flesh, then we deserve to suffer. What we have done is shameful, but what is shameful can not be attributed to suffering for Christ! In fact, the spirit of glory and of God rests on us when we suffer. Could that make the suffering sweet? Could that turn pain into rejoicing? Certainly, in suffering we cry out to God. We depend on Him. We cling to Him. So yes! It is sweet and joyous to be so close to Jesus and the Father.

In a way this is a warning. Believers, listen up! Why are you suffering? Is it for our own fleshly foolishness or is it for Jesus? For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God, Peter warns. Confess, repent, and go in a new direction. So when we suffer for Jesus according to God's will, we can  entrust our souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. Who else could be responsible for my soul? No one but the one who created me!

Father,

Make me aware of my foolish choices that lead me into sin. Open my eyes to see so that I may confess and repent. Help me Lord to trust You constantly. Help me to rejoice when I suffer for Jesus.

In His name,

Amen