“What good does it do if, when you sin, you patiently receive punishment for it? But if you suffer for doing good and receive it patiently, you have God’s approval. This is, in fact, what you were called to do, because: The Messiah also suffered for you and left an example for you to follow in his steps.” 1 Peter 2:20-21 (ISV)
When we suffer for doing good, we tend to retaliate, prove our point, and have the last word. Eating out with a couple of friends, we were surprised that the waiter only got one order correct. We all remained calm as he got very upset, impatient and acted as if it were our fault that he brought the wrong food. We did not react to him, but rather showed him lots of love. He came back afterwards apologizing for his behavior. Now we could have responded the same way he responded to us. We could have defended ourselves and justified our behavior. Instead we showed mercy, patience, and extended grace. He couldn’t believe we didn’t get upset. We told him we knew he probably had a lot on him and ended up giving him a nice tip. By responding with kindness, he saw how he had acted and apologized. When we are treated badly or unfairly, we must show the love of Christ. It speaks volumes, and God might speak to the person through that incident. When someone mistreats us wrongfully remember, they did it to Jesus too. How have we responded lately to people and situations? Was it Christ like? Are we willing to humble ourselves and not have the last word?
“Father, help us to follow Your example of love and humility in times of suffering wrongfully. May we extend grace to those around us as You have extended it to us.”
For His Glory
Linda Reyes Shepherd
TRBC Mountain Blend
trbccoffeebreak 
Leave a comment