January 23 - Partakers

I Peter 4:12-13
"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may by glad also with exceeding joy.”
 
How would you define the word Christian?
 
A common definition is “a follower of Christ”. Which is true, but lets break down the word itself: Christ-ian. The “ian” is a suffix with the same meaning and properties as the prior word. So, in our case, a Christian is someone with the same properties as Christ. Someone who is like Him. In order to be like Him, we have to partake in His sufferings, which He suffered for us.
 
Not only can we see His glory revealed in us through our sufferings, but we can also find joy, exceeding joy, amidst the pain. The fiery trial that is trying you right now isn’t just some strange thing that has happened to you. Though it’s hard to see it now, it has been Heaven sent, for your good. Peter goes on to say that though we should be reproached for the name of Christ, we should be happy! Why? Because the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon us through the trial, and we can give Him glory in it. See verse 14.
 
What a testimony for those around us to witness His power!
 
Bible Reading:
Genesis 45-46  |  Matthew 2  |  Proverbs 23