July 31________________________________________
So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin. –1 Peter 4:1 (NLT)
BE READY TO SUFFER
A poem and essay by ILMA
Christ suffered physical pain in order to save man
Do you return his favor by following his commands?
Jesus was betrayed, beaten, ridiculed and oppressed
Do you react when you are discriminated and depressed?
Think of Jesus each time you feel dejected
He experienced tortured and was very much rejected
Christ suffered and died for you to be free from bondage
What have you done for his kingdom’s advantage?
________________________________________
I used to be a whiny person. I grew up in an environment where complaining is normal. When I came to Canada, I was culturally shocked to find out that this wasn’t the norm. Just stating unsolicited opinion is a form of complaint here. It took many years before I realized that I have come from a country where almost anyone can just air their opinions blatantly and boldly. Politeness is valued very much in here. I learned to control my mouth and God showed me to learn to say things gently and out of love.
The bible explains how Christ dealt with his oppressors. He didn’t say a word or retaliated or aired his opinions. He suffered quietly.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to have self-control.
REFLECTION
When did you ever suffer for Christ?
________________________________________
For more testimonials about God’s word, please go to YouTube and type ILMA’s poem devotional or go to www.ilmaarts.com posts. To receive emails of my poem devotionals, email me at ILMA.ARTS.STUDIO@gmail.com