Thursday, April 23, 2026

Scripture

“It is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly.” 1 Peter 2:19

Reflections

Suffering comes with the human experience.  Sometimes we bring it upon ourselves.  Sometimes it just happens.

The Apostle Peter was writing about Christians who were suffering unjustly for being followers of Christ.  No doubt, God knew their suffering and looked favorably upon them.

There are still many within our world who suffer for their faith.  Persecution is very real.  We advocate for them.  We pray for them.  Their suffering dwarfs any suffering we experience in our country.  Still, we do suffer at times unjustly.  The evil one has a target on all of Christ’s followers.  He comes uninvited—even through things like illness, grief, unemployment, doubt, despair, troubles within families, etc.

When our loving Lord God sees us suffering unjustly, He takes notice.  He is the one who suffered unjustly on the cross.  He knows how it feels.  Thus, his heart goes out to us.

Jesus could have avoided the cross, but he did not.  God used that chapter to do something good, show the world his love.  God can also make use of the chapters in which we are suffering unjustly.  Our attitude in suffering can serve as a witness to others.  As people of faith, we do know things get better.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for enduring the cross for my sake.  Be my strength in suffering.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: 1 Peter 2:19-25