21 Nov December 11th Daily Devotion

A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON PAUL’S LETTER TO THE  CHURCH AT PHILIPPI

 SUFFER FOR HIM      

Philippians 1:29-30 “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.”

In the United States there are few, if any cases of Christian martyrdom.  Persecution of Christians in this country is far more subtle than outright murdering of them because of their faith and trust in Jesus.  To this point in time, Satan has attacked Christians in this country through ostracism, criticism, cynicism, and shunning.  Social pressure and group dynamics have been sufficient tools of the evil one to cause many believers’ discomfort and yes, even suffering.

St. Paul writes in today’s devotional verses “it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him. . .”  This is indeed happening in this country.  Suffering is not only caused by physical attack.  Emotional and psychological pain can be just as debilitating as a physical blow.  Sometimes it is even worse.

Someone not wanting to associate with you because you are a Christian can cause you distress.  Not wanting you to be a part of a social circle isolates you from an entire group of people.  St. Paul’s warning that this may happen to you is to prepare you.  The previous verses of Philippians 1 provide you with encouragement to equip you to properly deal with whatever suffering you may endure.

Remember verses 27-28, “. . . conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ . . . stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel . . .” Verse 21 reminds you, “For to (you), to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Psalm 118:6-9,14 encourages you with these words, “The Lord is with (you); (you) will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to (you?) The Lord is with (you); He is (your) helper. (you will) look in triumph on (your) enemies. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes. The Lord is (your) strength and (your) defense; he has become (your) salvation.”

Prayer:  Lord, keep me steadfast in my faith and trust in You even if necessary that I must suffer.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

Lord, keep us steadfast I Your Word;

Curb those who by deceit or sword

Would wrest the kingdom from Your Son

And bring to naught all He has done.

Lord Jesus Christ, Your pow’r make know,

For You are Lord of lords alone;

Defend Your holy Church that we

May sing Your praise eternally.

O Comforter of priceless worth,

Send peace and unity on earth;

Support us in our final strife

And lead us out of death to life.

(LSB 655)