Today’s Reading: 1 Peter 4:1-6
Today’s Verse: “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;” 1 Peter 4:1 KJV
When we see or hear the word “suffer,” the experience of physical or emotional pain comes to mind. The fact that we, or someone that we know, have gone through an unpleasant event, injury, or loss.
Biblically, suffering also includes spiritual pain.
Suffering entered the world when Adam and Eve disobeyed God (Genesis 3 KJV).
In today’s reading, we see that Jesus suffered physically (in the flesh) to break the power of sin brought into the world. Christ died to destroy sin. To fulfill God’s will. He did it despite all the pain.
His suffering is the strongest and best argument against how we can defeat all the difficulties we face in life. All the things that the world brings our way.
The Word teaches us to arm ourselves with the same mind as Christ. Preparing our minds like a soldier getting ready for a battle. Putting on the whole armor of God. Getting us ready for any hardships or unfair treatment faced for doing what is right.
Living for Christ instead of human desires is His command. Our trials are not a punishment. When we suffer and stand firm through our hardships we break away from past sinful habits. Sin no longer has control over our lives. We choose to live a pure life for God. To depend on His grace.
We have a deep determination to honor Him no matter the cost.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Father, we know that Christ suffered physically in His body. That as believers we should prepare our minds with the same selfless attitude. We need to be able to stand firm against sin and endure hardships. We are determined to commit to following Christ and turn away from worldly sin. We want to live to do Your will. To live a Divine life, with the Holy Spirit as our guide. Thank You for giving us the wisdom to live a life that brings glory to Your name.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen