“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” (Romans 8:17)
Funny. It doesn’t say we’ll…
get that promotion
have the luxury of foregoing any sacrifice
get any outstanding debts paid
have a secure retirement
have trouble-free relationships
enjoy stress-free living
or have “right” political views
…if we call upon God the Father.
Suffering. If we share in HIS sufferings… What are his sufferings? Living according to the will of his Father and suffering rejection to the point of death. How willing am I to suffer rejection? How willing am I live life (i.e. my mornings, my evenings, my weekends, workdays and daily commutes) according to God’s Spirit?
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law….Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” (Galatians 5:22,26)
“In putting everything under him, God left nothing that is not subject to him. Yet at present we do not see everything subject to him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering.” (Hebrews 2:8-10)
June 27, 2009 at 4:41 am
A message we need to hear. Interesting that Hebrews says it was ‘fitting’. Gold is refined through the fire and so are we. Thanks Suz.
June 27, 2009 at 10:56 am
This is something I’ve struggled with all week. How to be gracious in rejection. How to be hopeful as an heir.