"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist, him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brethren in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 5:8-11)
I read about and pray for, "brethren in the world", who are suffering terribly every day. Some say that it doesn't help people to know that there are others around the world who are going through what they are going through. Then, I guess, Peter did not know what he was talking about. Suffering is a part of the life of those who follow Jesus Christ.
Listen, you and I are a part of a suffering brotherhood, whatever that suffering may be. The Word of God Himself tells us, "Remember the prisoners as if chained with them---those who are mistreated-- since you yourselves are in the body also."
Father, in Jesus' Name, I thank You that I am apart of Your Church throughout the earth, suffering or not. Amen.
When Peter, an 18 year old Norwegian, "heard the call to evangelize China, on that day he not only emptied his wallet into the collection plate, but included a small note with the words, 'and my life.'"
Hebrews 12:2
