Commit and Continue

 "For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good."

— 1 Peter 4:17-19

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

Peter begins this section in vs. 12 saying, "do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you." The suffering we undergo as Christians is purifying not punitive. You are preparing us for eternity and You use suffering as the purifying process to clean, strengthen, and teach us. Psalm 119:71 says, "It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees." But the suffering the nonbeliever will experience is eternal. The same fire that burns up straw will refine gold. The suffering I am experiencing is refining me. But for those who do not obey the gospel of God, their suffering is going to burn them up.

Peter quotes Proverbs 11:31, "If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!" Acts 14:22 says, "We must go through many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God." If the way to heaven includes suffering, how much more so will the eternal punishment be for those who reject Your saving sacrifice on the Cross?

So then, as I undergo suffering in this life according to Your will, I am to commit my life to Your faithful hands and continue to do good.

Gracious Lord Jesus, that is my decision today. I choose to surrender my life into Your hands even as I undergo suffering today. I understand that nothing comes to my life without first passing through Your hands. You are using my suffering to cleanse me, strengthen me, and purify me for Your Kingdom that is to come!

— In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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