BETTER TO SUFFER?

Baca: 1 PETER 3:13-22

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Bacaan tahunan: 1 Kings 10-11

Human wisdom considers that doing good will protect us from various sufferings. Because suffering is seen as a consequence of evil deeds. However, in fact, suffering does not always come as a reward for wrongdoing. Loyalty to Christ sometimes leads us to suffering. Sometimes suffering becomes heavier when we choose to stand upright holding the truth. When we choose to be honest in the midst of a corrupt system, for example.

Peter teaches that suffering for doing good is a blessing. Suffering can also occur because of God's will. Just as Christ lived suffering to fulfill God's will perfectly, His followers always have the possibility of enduring suffering for the sake of righteousness. Thus, suffering for the sake of truth is pleasing to God because we walk in His will. God values it, so He calls those who suffer for righteousness "blessed" (cf. Matt. 5:3-12).

Suffering for the sake of truth becomes a testament of faith, because remaining joyful and hopeful in the midst of suffering shows the world that difference. If Christ has suffered first and ended in victory, suffering also unites us with Christ: suffering with Him, glorified with Him (cf. Rom. 8:17). Suffering forms a heart that is obedient, patient, and pure. Suffering teaches us to rely on the Lord. If so, isn't it better to suffer for doing the will of God? --EBL/www.renunganharian.net

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GOD USES OUR SUFFERINGS TO PURIFY OUR FAITH, TO BE A TESTIMONY, AND TO UNITE US WITH CHRIST IN GLORY.

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