As we have noted, when we are used, abused, and accused, it is generally not a pleasant experience. However, we would do well to learn to seek how God can be glorified in those moments?
Those who abuse others generally do not value the lives of others. Perhaps this stems from not even having a healthy focus on themselves. When it comes to our Christian life, there are many who do not value that either. However, when our Christian faith is being acknowledged even in a negative sense, can we still find reason to rejoice?
Writing to Christians who were undergoing persecution, Peter exhorted. . .
“(14) If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. (15) But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. (16) Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.” (1 Peter 4:13-16 ESV)
Peter wrote as one who knew that experience. Though abused by beating and being told to stop speaking in the name of Jesus, he and the other apostles rejoiced in being counted worthy of suffering for the name. (Acts 5:40-41) They rejoiced that their Christ connection was being acknowledged. Therefore, they were ready to honor the name of Christ regardless of how they were treated. May we also seek to glorify God in the name of Jesus even when abused by ill treatment or ridicule for our faith!
Have a great day EXPERIENCING BEING ABUSED AS OPPORTUNITY TO GLORIFY
THE NAME WE WEAR!
Carl
