April 9, 2024

April 9:  Joy Through Tribulation.

Facing Trials With Joy.
If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.  On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.--1 Peter 4:14, NKJV

THE WORLD LOVES SIN, and hates righteousness, and this was the cause of its hostility to Jesus.  All who refuse His infinite love will find Christianity a disturbing element.  The light of Christ sweeps away the darkness that covers their sins, and the need of reform is made manifest.  While those who yield to the influence of the Holy Spirit begin war with themselves, those who cling to sin war against the truth and its representatives.

Thus strife is created, and Christ's followers are accused as troublers of the people.  But it is fellowship with God that brings them the world's enmity.  They are bearing the reproach of Christ.  They are treading the path that has been trodden by the noblest of the earth.  Not with sorrow, but with rejoicing, should they meet persecution.  Each fiery trial is God's agent for their refining.  Each is fitting them for the work as colabors with Him.  Each conflict has its place in the great battle for righteousness, and each will add to the joy of their final triumph.  Having this in view, the test of their faith and patience will be cheerfully accepted rather than dreaded and avoided.--The Desire of Ages, 306.

                                  Since Christ suffered for us in the flesh,
                                  arm yourselves also with the same mind,
                                            for he who has suffered in the flesh
                                                      has ceased from sin.
                                                                                              --1 Peter 4:1, NKJV