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 knew no sin, nor was there any deceit found in His mouth; and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him Who judges righteously; And He Himself bore our sins in His Body on the Cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.”
Wow, imagine the Grace released within our lives, that Jesus could have such a great part of our heart, that He would actually live through us, and fulfill those words. Jesus enabling us to let His Divine composure within take precedent over our natural instinct, and carnal nature. 1 Peter 5: 10: says, “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace (Who imparts all blessing and favor), Who called you to His (Own) eternal Glory in Christ Jesus, will Himself perfect (complete and make you what you ought to be), confirm, strengthen, and establish you (establish and ground you securely, and strengthen and settle you).
Dearest Holy Lord Jesus: thank You so very much for the gift of Your suffering, which You received willingly, so that we might live eternally with You. Come by Your Holy Spirit, and enable us also to embrace Your Holy Will for our lives, that we might have Life in You, and that more abundantly. Thank you for allowing us the high honor and privilege of identifying with Who You are. Glory to You alone!
