1 PETER 5:1-11
Benedictions are common at the conclusion of church services. “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you,” Peter concludes in his first epistle (1 Peter 5:10). The phrase “after that ye have suffered a while” is sometimes left out of this benediction. Why? Perhaps it is because it is unpleasant to bring up the subject of suffering.
When suffering comes our way, we should not be surprised. The apostle Paul knew what it was like to suffer, and he knew that everyone who wanted to live a godly life in Christ Jesus would face persecution (2 Tim. 3:12).
We can expect to be mocked, misunderstood, and even mistreated if we live a life of surrender to God and resistance to the devil. However, the apostle Peter claims that such suffering has a purpose. Its purpose is to strengthen, stabilise, and sustain us.
God’s plan for our Christian growth often takes us through adversities, but they strengthen us so that we can weather future storms. May God strengthen our faith as we strive to courageously live a life that honours Him.
🙏🏼 Lord, help us go through the school of suffering with patience.
