We have mountains of evidence throughout the Word of God that “suffering in Jesus” is the link that enables one to identify with, and become more like Him. Romans 8: 29: says, “For those He foreknew (of whom He was aware and loved beforehand), He also destined from the beginning to be “molded” into the image of his Son (and share inwardly His likeness), that He might become the firstborn among many brethren. Imagine that, Jesus came to make us like Him. The first thought that went through my mind just now, “Boy, does He ever have His work cut out for Him” (considering myself). Anyone who has ever done pottery of any kind will know it takes many attempts, much tearing, and remolding, before the end product is acceptable. This is the process intended to be portrayed in this Scripture. 1 Peter 2: 19 – 21: “For this finds favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly. For what credit is there, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God. For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps.” In Verses 22 – 25, we have the example of Jesus’ composure which He aspires for all who make Him Lord, saying, “(Jesus) Who…
