| Yesterday's Bible Study |
In his first letter, Peter delivers the solemn message that suffering is inevitable in the Christian life. We will face trials and difficulties of many kinds, but we can endure because Christ will give us strength. Indeed, as Paul writes in today's verse, Jesus was no stranger to suffering--He stepped into it so that we could be redeemed.
Peter's letter reminds us that we should not be surprised when suffering comes. Sometimes, the shock of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. However, if we are expecting--not with anticipation or dread as much as through an acknowledgment that we are not immune to the brokenness of this world--to encounter suffering, we will be more prepared to handle it in a godly way.
Jesus lived a perfect life. He was blameless in every respect. However, His life ended with one of the most painful methods of execution ever devised: crucifixion. He did not deserve this, but He took it upon Himself willingly. He had a long view of His suffering, knowing that three days after the nails pierced His hands, He would rise again. In the same way, when we endure suffering, we can take the long view of it. We can remember that while it may not be redeemed this instant, the Lord will work everything for the good.
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Finally, in times of great pain, it is easy to feel as though we are all alone. It can feel like no one could possibly understand what we are going through, and it seems like the whole world is against us. Jesus knew what this felt like. He willingly stepped into suffering and endured horrific pain. He knows what it is like to be unjustifiably abandoned, rejected, and physically wounded. He did not step back and avoid suffering, but instead entered into our world and the multitude of suffering it contains. He did not spare Himself because He loved us deeply.
If you are suffering, think about Jesus. Reflect on the love that He has for you, and remember that He knows from first-hand experience exactly what you are feeling. Even if no one else knows how to comfort you, He does--and He will.
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