Daily Devotional
Suffering For Christ
April 25, 2018
First Peter 3:13 says, “And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?” You say, “Oh boy, I love that verse. Nobody can harm me.” Let’s keep reading to the first part of verse 14: “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed.”
Now wait a minute, Pastor Rogers. The Bible seems to contradict itself. One verse says, “Who is he that will harm you?” and the next verse talks about our suffering.
Yes, that is true. Peter is saying that people may hurt you, but they can’t harm you. As a matter of fact, your suffering for Christ’s sake is going to make you happy.
I have not suffered a lot for Christ, but I want to tell you that those times that I have suffered and I knew it was for Jesus, have been some of the happiest times of my entire life. I cannot tell you the indescribable joy that has come into my heart and my life.
Now, we shouldn’t seek suffering. But if we suffer for righteousness’ sake, we should be happy. Jesus Christ will never be more near to us than when we take a stand for Him.
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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.’”
