For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.- 1 Peter 2:21
The late Adrian Rogers was one of the most humble and gracious men that I have ever met.Although well known and highly respected, I never knew of him thinking he was better or believing he deserved better than anyone else. The following words, at least in part, explains why. He knew that suffering is to be expected and accepted. He wrote:
Christ suffered for you.
“But I don’t want to suffer for Him.”
You’re going to suffer anyway—whether you are saved or lost. That is life in a fallen world.
When you submit to Jesus Christ and obey the Word of God, He is going to arch a rainbow of hope over your suffering. He is going to write Romans 8:28 over what you are going through. You will know that your current trial is for your good.
Surrender and submission to God is the only way to get His grace and power over your life. Joy, peace, and worry-free days are ahead for the one who lays his life down for the glory of God. Suffering will come, but joy will follow.
