Theological Thursdays

1 Peter 4:15-19 "But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, a criminal, or even as a mischief maker. Yet if any of you suffers as a Christian, do not consider it a disgrace, but glorify God because you bear this name. For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God; if it begins with us, what will be the end for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And 'If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinners?' Therefore, let those suffering in accordance with God's will entrust themselves to a faithful Creator, while continuing to do good."

I'll never forget the first time I read this passage of Scripture and it stuck with me. It was about 3 am in the morning and I awoke with cramps. I knew immediately that the cramps were coming from the mixture of grease and sugar that I had stuffed my face with several hours before. I got up from my dormitory bed and headed to the restroom. I took my Bible with me, because I knew it would be awhile cleansing myself of my own gluttony. I opened up to 1 Peter and simply began to read it. I must admit, I was half asleep and wasn't paying much attention until I got to this section. Wow! I didn't even know how to feel about it. After my restroom escapade ended, I went back to bed but laid awake thinking about these phrases.
Phrases like: "...hard for the righteous to be saved"
And: "do not consider suffering a disgrace"
And: "continue to do good while you suffer"

I personally believe that after several years of devotion to the Lord, everything becomes pretty simple to understand and comprehend, except for this idea of the believer's suffering. I was around many people, who stated that God caused no one to suffer, but it was all the devil's doing. Unfortunately, this rabbit trail takes us to God not being in control because the devil has so much power. I respect the argument because it tries to protect the goodness of God. Why can't God allow suffering with his children and be good? Now, I'm not getting into suffering in general, I am only pinpointing the believer's suffering. If we, as believers, do not suffer then we miss out on one of the most phenomenal experiences and blessings that we could have. This is not to make light of suffering. I believe Jesus Christ very much suffered and did not enjoy the beatings and crucifixion while it happened, but he showed us the height of his love for us. In other words, Christ suffered for us and now we have the opportunity to suffer for Him. It is a beautiful picture that is sometimes difficult to look at, but causes our souls to groan in ways that transcend any type of church doctrine.
When I have stood up for the Truth and defended my God and did everything right, but still suffer it is hard. But, there is this deep peace and joy that comes only from God's Spirit that whispers to me in deep, intimate tones... "I love you. I am here with you. You are my son. Be at peace." I would not trade those words whispered by the Holy Spirit for anything. Pain and suffering come and go, but it's not every day the finger of God wipes the tears from my eyes and holds me, rocking me back and forth. This is an intimacy that I could never explain in words. I pray that you will have those intimate moments in your walk as well.