Scripture: 1 Peter 4:15-16 ¹⁵ If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. ¹⁶ However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

Observation: 1 Peter 4 is essentially addressing the fact that if you live like a follower of Chrsit you will suffer persecution.  Because you will look different from the rest of the world, and they will not like that.  They will not like that you abstain from things of the world that they participate in.  There is also an assurance that all will be judged at the end of time.

Application: What stood out to me was vss. 15-16.  Peter makes the point clear that the suffering he is talking about is the result of living like a Christian-insulted for the name of Jesus.  We should not be ashamed of suffering for standing firm as a Christian.  It is not suffering or insults in general, but only those that are a result of your Christian witness.  Sometimes I think we tend to lump all suffering, even that which is common to unbelievers, as suffering for Christ.  Peter says clearly that we shouldn’t feel validated if we suffer for doing worldy things, or sinful things-but only for what we suffer in glorifying God.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am thankful that you took responsibility for my sin, and came to suffer and die for righteousness.  Please help me to follow you in suffering for what is right and glorifying to you only.  I pray that I may find only joy for your sake, even when trials or difficult things come my way-that I would even have trials because of your name would be a blessing!