Peter addresses an aspect of suffering in his first epistle.
“When you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps” (1 Peter 2:20-21).
When such suffering happens to us, we may find ourselves asking what we have done wrong to deserve such treatment or we may be appalled or upset that we be victimized in unjust ways. If we feel these, then we may have “unrealistic expectations” which distort our sensitivity to suffering. Our unrealistic expectations regarding self, life and God amplify disappointment and resentment which lead to anxiety and fear which rob us of the joy and peace that suffering with Christ brings.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7).
When we accept suffering instead of resisting, and focus on why we suffer, our whole outlook changes to reflect those of the apostles who walked in Christ’s steps.
“When they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ” (Acts 5:40–42).
As Christ’s return nears, the world grows darker, and as we grow to reflect Christ, our suffering will increase. This makes it ever more important that our expectations are based in the reality of being always aware of reasons for our calling.
Bill Hutchison
