For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. (1 Peter 2:15)
I was tired of being nice, but we pressed on. Each day, for the past week, my kids and I stood outside a local store with gift cards. We knew individuals were suffering because of the pandemic and God’s favor had been on our family. We did not experience any loss financially or relationally due to Covid. We simply wanted to help others by passing out some gift cards to families shopping, as we felt lead by the Holy Spirit. Yet, some were skeptical. They thought the cards were a scam. They accused us of being dishonest. However, we chose not to let their words deter us from doing the thing we felt God called us to do.
Similarly, Peter encouraged persecuted Christians not to allow others to hinder the work of God they were called to do. Even more, he encouraged them to submit to those in authority even if it was to their own detriment. They were to do this, knowing any suffering they experienced would simply put them closer to Christ.
Christianity is not an exemption from suffering. In fact, often we will experience ridicule and shame from those around us who do not understand the ways of God. However, Christ calls us to stand firm in the midst of suffering for the sake of those who may benefit from our example.
Display God’s love by standing firm today.
Tara Klein is a Wesley Seminary [IN] graduate who enjoys relaxing with her family, serving others, and sharing God’s unconditional love with the lost and broken-hearted.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
