the Rev. Henry Huenemann
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12).
Bible Reading
2 Timothy 3:Devotional
By nature we are averse to suffering. No one likes to suffer. But in this life all must suffer, believers as well as unbelievers. Suffering came by reason of sin. From this we must not conclude that all special suffering is directly due to special sins. God sends suffering and affliction, that his works should be made manifest.
There is also a suffering for Christ's sake, that comes upon all that live godly in Christ Jesus. "We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." We must all experience the fellowship of his sufferings. But that must not discourage us. For if we suffer with him, we shall also be glorified with him. "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Moses made a wise choice, when "he chose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." James holds up for us the prophets as an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. And the apostles, "rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name." And Christ says, "Rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in heaven." In heaven there shall be no more sorrow, but we shall be glad with exceeding joy.
Prayer
Our Father in heaven, forbid that we should suffer as evildoers; but if we suffer for Christ's sake, let us not think it strange, but let us rather rejoice, and glorify Thee on this behalf. Help us to remember that, if we are partakers of Christ's sufferings, we shall also be partakers of his glory that shall be revealed at his coming, and that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with this glory. So we thank Thee for the joy of salvation, but also for the sufferings we must endure for Christ's sake. Help us to be faithful to the end. Amen.
Scripture in Devotional: John 9:3: Acts 14:22; Phil. 3:10; Rom. 8:17, 18; Heb. 11:25; James 5:10; Acts 5:12; 1 Pet. 4:13.
Click here for background on Light and Comfort and the author.
© 2024 The Orthodox Presbyterian Church