Daily Devotional
How do you handle suffering?
January 21, 2019
BIBLE MEDITATION:
“Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to Him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.” 1 Peter 4:19
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:
First Peter 4 has a lot to say to us when we find ourselves in the midst of suffering. When you encounter suffering, what’s your first reaction? Here’s what it ought to be:
First, you are to rejoice in what God is allowing to happen. “But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (1 Peter 4:13).
Second, you need to review your life. Peter continues: “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God” (1 Peter 4:17). If God is going to clean house, He will start first with those who are already His. Look within and ask: “Am I suffering because of something I’ve done?” If the Holy Spirit convicts you that your suffering is a result of your sin, then you need to repent.
Third, when you review your life and discover that your suffering is for the cause of Christ, then simply rely on Him. “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to Him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator (1 Peter 4:19). It is not your problem. It is His problem.
ACTION POINT:
Peter uses the word “commit” (v. 19). That’s a banking term meaning to deposit something of value with someone else to keep it safe. Make your deposit to the One who can truly keep it safe. He will take care of you. You can bank on it.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
