29For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake
A direct translation of the word “granted” is Graciously Given,
It’s for the glorification of Jesus that this opposition comes.
not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,
Suffering for Christ is normal for Christians
2 Timothy 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
In trials we have the OPORTUNITY to find favor with God
Suffering also brings us closer to God.
Suffering as a Witness for Jesus
Our RIGHT REACTION TO suffering testifies to the reality of our faith.
Tribulations and problems transform character.
It’s those tribulations that bring about the transformation of character
SO WHAT DO WE DO WHEN WE ARE IN TRIALS?
First, get the proper perspective
We must get our eyes off of our trials and focus them on Jesus.
God is building us up, as living stones fit together into His house.
Remember Jesus is with us in trials. Jesus is Faithful
Hebrews 13:5b for He Himself has said, “I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,”
God will sustain us in trials.
Trials are temporary.
Stand. Be strong in the Lord.
Rejoice in the Lord