“Those who suffer because that is God’s will for them must entrust themselves to a faithful creator and continue to do what is good.”1 Peter 4:19 (GW)
Some people think that if they’re suffering, then they must be sinning. They think their suffering is a result of being outside of God’s will. But the Bible says that sometimes we suffer according to God's will.
"Those who suffer because that is God’s will for them must entrust themselves to a faithful creator and continue to do what is good" (1 Peter 4:19 GW).
Sometimes it's God's will for you to suffer. Sometimes it's God's will for you to be sick. Sometimes it's God's will for you to have problems and be harassed for your faith. Why? Because God is more interested in your character than your comfort. He's more interested in growing you to be like Christ than he is in making your life easy.
So what should you do when the bullies and harassers come at you? You should trust in your faithful God who has promised you his presence and eternity in heaven. And you should keep on doing good.
You’re still going to face trouble and opposition. This is part of the Christian life! I learned a long time ago that people can laugh at you or say things about you, but they can't stop you. They have no ability to stop you from believing and doing the right thing. How you respond to others—in retaliation or in love—will always be your choice. And you can always make the right choice with the help of the Holy Spirit in you.
Keep going. Remain faithful. Just keep doing the right thing. You don't need anybody else's approval to be happy. You don't need to be part of the cool club. You don't need a smart reply for your enemies.
You just need to persevere in doing what is right.
God sees you. He will take care of you. And he will keep his promise to be with you forever.
Rick Warren is an innovative pastor, renowned author, and global influencer known for founding Saddleback Church, the Purpose Driven Network, the PEACE Plan, and Hope for Mental Health. He has written several best-selling books, including The Purpose Driven Life, which has sold over 35 million copies in 200 languages. Time magazine named Warren the most influential spiritual leader in America and one of the 100 most influential people in the world. Since stepping down from the lead pastor role at Saddleback in 2022, Warren has continued to inspire people through his Daily Hope Devotional and podcast Pastor Rick’s Daily Hope. His first book in a decade, Created to Dream, was released in April 2023.
For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!
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