Suffering for Christ

“It has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for Him…” -Philippians 1:29

This verse really stood out to me this morning as I continued my new Bible study (see post below). The first half of the verse about “believing on Christ” was easy to read, but I had to dig deep to admit that I don’t really know anything about “suffering for Christ.” Paul certainly did. He was facing intense persecution when he wrote these words to his Christian brothers at the chuch at Philippi. Throughout history and today, our brothers and sisters in many other countries are persecuted for the cause of Christ and even die. Many Christians in America who take action to exalt God in our country face persecution and suffering for Christ. But what about me?

Yes, I have sacrificed for Christ. I have given up my will to accept His, in very big ways. But sacrificing isn’t the same as suffering. Also, “suffering” (as in disease, personal loss, etc.) isn’t the same as “suffering for Christ.” The bottom line is that I have not suffered for the cause of Christ.

I cannot imagine a more incredible display of adoration for Christ and commitment to Christ than suffering for Him. How could I not be ready and willing, even eager, to suffer for Him after He paid the ultimate price to save my soul for eternity? I am a soldier in a war, and I have the greatest cause – to glorify God and to see people saved. I want to go home (to heaven) with battle scars and wounds that testify that I was fighting, and I was courageous, and I gave my all for Christ.

It may sound crazy and ignorant to say “I want to suffer for Christ,” but that was the heart of Paul. When he was persecuted, he said “to live is Christ and to die is gain.” This life isn’t about getting through it the easy way. This life is about glorifying God, and a heart that truly loves God delights in glorifying Him. Lord, help me glorify you no matter what the cost.