Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.
1 Peter 4:1-2 NIV
1 Peter 4:1-2 NIV
As people, we try to avoid suffering whenever possible. Not only that but we also sometimes get upset and frustrated when, as followers of Jesus Christ, we face suffering - thinking subconsciously that we shouldn't suffer if we are doing good.
Peter here points out an important truth: suffering purifies us. It stops us from sinning! It changes our focus so that we recognize what is really important. When we are afraid of dying or see people who have died, it reminds us that life is short and we should focus on the important things. In a similar way, when we face suffering, it forces us to seek God. This is especially true when the suffering is a consequence of some hurtful activity we've done (e.g. smoking -> cancer -> stop smoking and never do it again). It is also true that we grow most from difficulties that help change us.
So when we face suffering, let's remember to ask God for his purification, his help and his change!
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