1 PETER 4:16 (TLB)
It is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being in Christ’s family and being called by his wonderful name!
Glorifying God, not ourselves, in suffering
Billy Graham once said that the biggest issue with a “watered-down” faith is its foundation. If our Christianity is built on the temporary pleasures and approval of the world, it can’t handle the real commitment that comes with it. When our faith is just a convenience, we feel weak and scared, and we won’t stand up for Christ even when it means something to us.
The Apostle Peter, a man who once denied Christ for fear of persecution, understood this temptation firsthand. Later, writing to believers enduring fiery trials, he made it clear: suffering for the right reasons is a privilege, not a punishment. It is a sign that our faith is so vibrant, so “virile and dynamic,” that it poses a threat to the world.
But Peter distinguishes between suffering for our own foolishness and suffering for our devotion to Christ. If you suffer because you have acted unethically or caused trouble, that is a consequence of your own doing. But when you suffer because you are “gracious, bold, strong, and a devoted follower of the Lord Jesus Christ,” you should not be ashamed. Instead, you should praise God that you are counted worthy to share in Christ’s sufferings.
We are constantly tempted to compromise and avoid conflict. But we are called to radical, seven-day-a-week commitment. Faced with subtle persecution—the mockery, discrimination, or cold shoulder that comes with living for Christ—remember that it is an opportunity to glorify God with a faith that is not a fragil or watered-down.
Dead lord Jesus, thank You for teaching us what strong, devoted faith looks like. We ask for forgiveness for the times we have avoided standing up for Jesus to escape ridicule. Let the Holy Spirit strengthen us to be more devoted and courageous, and to remember that to suffer for Jesus is a privilege and an opportunity to glorify You. In Jesus’ beautiful name we pray, AMEN.
