How to Thrive in Our Suffering?

A 溫偉耀 Sermon Summary

Since the apostle Peter’s time, Christians have suffered at the hands of non-believers. How should we face it (1Peter 4)?
 
First, we accept suffering, decay, and death as inevitable, and we persevere (1 Peter 4:12).
 
Sometimes the end of suffering comes slowly. The world focuses on efficiency and instant gratification. But as in Walter Mischel’s marshmallow experiment, five-year-old kids who could resist eating marshmallows for fifteen minutes typically were more successful later in life than those who couldn’t. Don’t let food, sex, or other idols control you (1 Peter 4:3), but practice self-control (Proverbs 25:28).
 
Suffering can come from those around us, specifically when we choose not to indulge in the same excesses of dissipation. Persevere, as Christ has persevered (1Peter 4:4-6).
 
Second, trust and depend on God. Wait for Him in faith (Isaiah 40:31). God didn’t cause your suffering, but He knows and has His plans. Have faith and follow Him (1 Peter 4:19).
 
Jesus is the author and perfector of faith, sitting at the right hand of the Father (Hebrew 12:2). He was also human, having been through tremendous suffering. We should pray unceasingly to Him and trust His affirmations that everything will be fine; and we should trust His tears, assuring that He cares for us and won’t forget us.
 
Third, focus on the upcoming rewards. This will help us endure suffering. Our pain on earth is temporal, but our future glory will be eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Don’t envy the wicked, for judgment waits for them.
 
In Mischel’s experiment, children practiced better self-control when they found distractions, such as running around, singing, and looking at things other than the enticing marshmallows.
 
Christ experienced tremendous suffering. But He persevered, focusing on following the Father’s will and the destiny He was given (1 Peter 4:1-2). Likewise, we should turn our eyes upon Christ, and arm ourselves with His purpose to endure suffering. Don’t be afraid of it.
 
Also, we should love one another fervently; use our gifts to serve each other, as good stewards of God’s grace; and be hospitable to one another without grumbling. This includes accepting care from others. Bear our burdens together. In all things, glorify God through Christ (1 Peter 4:7-11).
 
Summary of a sermon by 溫偉耀, titled “Flourish from Our Suffering”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luX0icW0s1k