Embracing Suffering: Strengthening Faith Through Trials

Summary

### Summary

Good morning, church! Today, we gathered to partake in communion, reflecting on the Last Supper and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We remembered His body and blood, symbolized by the bread and juice, and took a moment to repent and seek forgiveness for any sins that might be hindering our relationship with God.

We then continued our series on 1 Peter, focusing on the theme "It's Better Later." We all desire to live better lives, but often, this journey involves seasons of suffering. Suffering is not something we naturally seek, but it is an integral part of the Christian walk. The Bible provides us with wisdom on how suffering can be beneficial. There are three primary reasons for suffering: our own poor decisions, the decisions of others, and God's will. Sometimes, God allows suffering to refine us and draw us closer to Him.

We explored the concept of suffering for righteousness' sake, as outlined in 1 Peter 3:13-17. Suffering for doing what is right, rather than for wrongdoing, brings blessings and strengthens our faith. It builds our confidence in Jesus, makes our convictions bolder, and keeps our conscience clear. We discussed the difference between harm and hurt, emphasizing that while people can hurt us, they cannot harm us if we remain steadfast in our faith.

We also touched on the importance of standing firm in our convictions, even when it leads to suffering. This steadfastness not only strengthens our own faith but also serves as a powerful testimony to others. We must be ready to defend our faith and live out our convictions boldly, regardless of the consequences.

In conclusion, suffering for righteousness' sake is a part of God's plan to make us better. It is through these trials that our faith is refined, our confidence in Jesus is strengthened, and our conscience remains clear. Let us embrace these seasons of suffering, trusting that God is using them for our ultimate good and His glory.

### Key Takeaways

1. Suffering for Righteousness' Sake: Suffering for doing what is right, rather than for wrongdoing, brings blessings and strengthens our faith. It is a part of God's plan to refine us and draw us closer to Him. Embrace these trials, knowing that they are for our ultimate good and His glory. [36:59]

2. Confidence in Jesus: When we endure suffering for righteousness' sake, our confidence in Jesus grows stronger. Just as storms eventually run out of rain, our trials will pass, leaving us with a deeper trust in God's faithfulness and sovereignty. [46:18]

3. Bold Convictions: Suffering for doing what is right makes our convictions bolder. We must stand firm in our faith, even when it leads to suffering, as this steadfastness serves as a powerful testimony to others and strengthens our own resolve. [48:01]

4. Clear Conscience: Maintaining a clear conscience is invaluable. When we obey God's commands and stand firm in our convictions, we can live with peace and integrity, knowing that we have honored God in our actions. [57:21]

5. God's Will in Suffering: Sometimes, God wills that we go through suffering to refine us and make us better. This type of suffering is not meant to bring us down but to elevate our faith and draw us closer to Him. Trust in God's plan and His purpose for your trials. [01:04:15]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[13:47] - Communion: The Body of Christ
[14:44] - Communion: The Blood of Christ
[15:37] - Prayer of Repentance
[16:26] - Introduction to 1 Peter Series
[32:40] - The Reality of Suffering
[34:12] - Reasons for Suffering
[35:18] - Hypocrisy in Suffering
[36:59] - Suffering for Righteousness' Sake
[38:37] - The Strengthening of Confidence
[40:06] - Difference Between Hurt and Harm
[41:42] - Zealous for Good
[43:19] - Standing on Convictions
[46:18] - Confidence Through Suffering
[48:01] - Bold Convictions
[50:58] - Testimony of Faith
[53:49] - The Slippery Slope of Darkness
[55:52] - Standing Firm in Faith
[57:21] - Clear Conscience
[01:00:05] - Living Without Fear of Others' Opinions
[01:04:15] - God's Will in Suffering
[01:07:41] - Invitation to Respond