We rejoice in so far as we share in the sufferings of Christ. Jesus’s own life serves as the pattern for all Christians. Following Jesus will inevitably involve imitating him in both sacrifice and suffering. We ought not be surprised at suffering and adversity. Instead, we must recognize that suffering for the cause of Christ is one of the great privileges given to those who represent him in this world.

Peter instructs us to not be surprised at the fiery trials we face, for they come to test us. We ought not view trials as something strange, but rather we should rejoice as we are sharing Christ’s sufferings.

Father, give us a mind to suffer, and let us not see the things we endure as strange or odd. As disciples of Jesus, help us to see ourselves as his disciples, and give us power to strive for your will, no matter what it might cost.

The holy priesthood is to live holy lives before God and the world (1 Peter 3:12), allow their good works to bring glory to God (1 Peter 2:12) and even use worthless good conduct as means of winning unbelievers to Christ, even – or especially – within the context of suffering. Believers are being formed into a community of sanctified priests whose purpose is to worship God in the spirit by the performance of sacrificial deeds.

~ Uche Anizor and Hank Voss, Representing Christ. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2016. p. 47.

Let God Arise! Seasonal Focus
Live as Ambassadors, John 13.12-20

Book Reading
Anizor and Voss, Representing Christ

Our Corporate Disciplines
National Day of Prayer: Monday, September 12, 2022