Today, it dawned on me, the implication of this verse. My love for the Lord is no secret, but I marvel at the learning process and how every now and then, you can have a new revelation. Well, today I had another one of those "revelation" moments that brought the tears freely flowing. (This happens all the time in the presence of my Saviour. I used to be embarassed before, especially in church when I was worshipping. Surreptiously, I would wipe my tears away, but not any more - I am not going to be ashamed of those hot tears that course down my face - they are just an expression of my undying gratitude to my Saviour, for ALL He has done for me).
1 Peter, Chapter 4:1 " 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; "
Ah! now I get it. Being born again, does not take away suffering. In fact, it may even heighten it. It is in the process of putting sinful desires to death, that we suffer, but when we come out in victory on the other side, sin does not have power over that area of our lives anymore. In the process, we partake in "Christ's sufferings" and become more like Him. Suffering builds character.
I reflect today on my own abilities. I know I have patience, but I also know I have been through some heart breaking, hurting experiences which has brought about this end result.
Then there is forgiveness. I know I have a great ability to forgive. I don't think I am totally there yet, but I have come a long way. I actually thought I had a problem at first, I totally forgot painful events and when I was reminded, I just could not remember. It felt strange, but now, I just feel thankful, and believe that I have partnered with Christ, and He has helped me in this area. Being forgiving is not a totally done issue, and there are times when, I have to work on forgiving, but I think I find it easier to forgive as time goes on.
Hospitality, now that is something that needs a lot of work on my part. I know I am withdrawn. I am not good at making friends. I have actually isolated myself because I am afraid of opening up my life to others. I don't want others to see my pain, even though a lot of it is the result of the actions of others. I am afraid that they will judge me on the basis of what they hear. My excuses for being inhospitable is my "busy-ness". I have five kids. I have to work. There are too many demands on my life that I have to fulfill. I don't want to gossip. I am afraid to get involved, because I don't want to be hurt anymore. Today, I understand, that to overcome would cause me suffering. As I tear down these walls of excuses, I will be making myself more vulnerable, but it will produce in me more character.
Embrace suffering, and inspite of it be joyful, because it will produce Godly character. To "cease from sin, is to suffer in the flesh". Now how many of us would love to cease from sin. I hope you too get this revelation and count your "suffering as joy".
God Bless and have a super day!!
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