Stepping In The Spirit

     Faith In Christ does not mean life is easier, or that there is less suffering or that we have all of the answers. We just know the One who does. Some of the wise and mature believers in my life have suffered; some of them in unimaginable ways. Somehow, coming out of their time of great suffering and loss, they have come to a deeper love and trust in Christ. Jesus can redeem our suffering. Look at this verse with me.

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example; that you should follow in His steps.  1 Peter 2;21

     Jesus suffered for us. He gave His life for us. He took all of the ugliness and suffering and sin of the world on His shoulders. We may have to suffer for a little while in our earthly lives, too. Let’s follow in His steps. He counted it pure joy.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Hebrews 12:1-2

     Running the race with perseverance as we follow Him. Can we do that? Following in His steps does not mean getting everything we want. He gives us what we need, wherever life takes us. Our earthly suffering will be redeemed one day as we, too, get the answers to our questions.

   We will know the answers to: Why? How can it be? How can I go on? What purpose could this serve? Why her? Why me? How could You allow this, Lord? He hears us. Not only does He hear, but He understands. He has been there in the depths, too, in anguish.

     One day we will know. In the meantime, trust Him with it all. I have seen lives changed through the powerful testimony of those who have suffered. Our testimonies bring glory to our God. Powerful, eternal answers are there at the end of the race. Follow in His steps, keeping in step with the Spirit and fixing our eyes on Jesus. Hold on to Jesus as we run the race with perseverance. We’re almost there.

Dear Father in heaven,

Let Jesus be our example. The suffering servant gave it all for us for the joy set before Him. We don’t get it. We don’t understand it. Any of it. But we trust You. You gave us Jesus and to Him we turn.

I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to Your statutes.  Psalm 119:59

In Jesus name,

Amen