To Suffer with Reason

Scripture Read: 1 Peter [12] Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; [13] but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation. [14] If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. [15] By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; [16] but if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God. [17] For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? [18] And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? [19] Therefore, let those also who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Application:  Father, I know, I know very little about suffering. You have sheltered me all my life. Now with RA and the side effects I am beginning to see what suffering is. I pray that I will not shame You in this trial. You know my weaknesses and I am still wrestling with two that I thought would be gone by now. I know that when I suffer due to those I learn less because they are self-inflicted. Please forgive me for my failures. Deliver me from these vices that torment my soul! I know I love You but I sense so much doubt of that because of my sin. But I must believe that Your commitment to me is sure or I will surely quit. I do not want to suffer – but if that is what must happen I so desire it to be from the enemy or from you – not from my failures. I ask you to forgive me for the times I let my flesh control. I want to turn away from that life and follow You with all my heart. I will cling to You and believe Your Word no matter what I feel. Thank You Lord for Your promises, I would be lost without them. I love you God!