Praise Him in My Dismay
Bearing His Name – Part 2
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Key Verse: 1 Peter 4:16
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
As we continue looking at Peter’s reminders that persecution is part of the norm for Christians, let’s look at our attitude as we go through it. First, the apostle tells us not to be ashamed. That is a good encouragement for us today. Our world treats Christians like we have something to be ashamed of because of our faith. Our society treats our belief like it comes from hatred. It is easy to start feeling ashamed that we are Christians. Let’s be encouraged that Christians have found the path to eternal life, as well as abundant life here on earth. We have nothing to be ashamed of!
Secondly, Peter tells us to “praise God that we bear that name.” Is your life characterized with praise? I have to admit, I find it easier to whine or complain than praise when I feel picked on! Let’s determine to fill up our attitudes with praise. We don’t have to live out the life in Christ—we get to! It is the life that brings peace and the deepest joy available in this life. We have reasons to praise Him—hundreds of reasons! We have an inheritance in eternity that will bless us forever. As Peter wrote: “If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you” (vs. 14).
Father, I’m going to praise you in my times of dismay! I’m going to remember I get to bear your name to our world. In Jesus’ name, amen.