By David Phillips
In the sermon this morning, we’ll be looking at Jesus’ example and our obligation to follow in His steps, from 1 Peter 2. One of the things that Peter calls attention to in that chapter, in addition to the fact that Jesus suffered for us, is that we will sometimes have to suffer in this life.
There are many different aspects to suffering, and Peter’s point seems to be centered on persecution. However, we sometimes suffer because of circumstances or conditions of life. Many would say we have been brought to suffer from the present distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We certainly have been disrupted, and severely inconvenienced. Many are suffering financially from its effects, and those whose health has been attacked by the virus, along with their loved ones and caretakers, have certainly suffered. My point is that suffering is a broad term, covering many aspects of a lot of different things. Peter’s points in this chapter reinforce what the Hebrew writer said in Hebrews 4:14-15: Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin.
Essentially, we are assured that we are never outside the understanding, care and sympathy of our Lord Jesus, no matter what happens to us in this life.
Consider these basic points that point us in the proper direction whenever life is hard.
- When we experience hardship, loss, disappointment or difficulty, don’t be surprised but remember where we are. We are strangers and pilgrims in a world that is not our home, 1 Peter 2:11.
- Even when we are suffering, remember that we are first and foremost the servants of God, 1 Peter 2:15-17, and that fact must always be evident.
- Bear in mind that no matter what happens in this life, we are being prepared for the next life in Heaven, and Jesus is even right now the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls, 1 Peter 2:25.
Even in the face of our suffering, we have so much to be thankful for.