1 PETER 4:19

So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good

TO PONDER

Fire, when left unattended, can be devastatingly destructive. It burns human and animal flesh with excruciating pain and destroys any vegetation and property in its path. 

Being a Christian does not make us invincible or wrap us in a cocoon that insulates us from earthly suffering and pain. However, as Christian's we can be certain that our Lord walks with us every step of our earthly journey.  And like the beautifully written piece 'footprints' (look it up if you don't know it – [Footprints in the sand]) as the writer looked back on life's most lowest moments to notice only one set of footprints along the sand, we too can be assured that during the most difficult periods of our own lives, that this is when Jesus carries us. 

All that is required from us, is to fully commit our lives to God and strive to live a Christ-like life. Jesus bore the punishment for our sinfulness through His suffering on the cross. We will not be spared challenges and suffering as a result. However, what we can be assured of as Christian's is that our suffering will be different. Unbelievers (the weeds and useless vegetation) will be totally consumed by the bush-fire, destroyed and die. As Christian's our suffering will shape us, and even strengthen us with re-growth just like that seen with the fresh growth of green shoots springing from the blackened bush-fire burned trees to start a new life and regenerate the forest to its former glory.      

Recall a period (low point) in your life where you questioned the suffering but ultimately came to realise how it had shaped or grown your faith. Why can it be so accept that God has His plans for you all sorted, and he walks with you, and at times even carries you? 

PRAYER: Our Father in Heaven. Sorry that I have difficulty accepting your will and the plans that you have for me here on earth as your disciple. Continue to assure me that I can confidently hand everything over to you and focus entirely on living a Christ-like life as you walk with me.  Amen

Today's devotion written by Shane Burdack, LifeWay Epping.