1 Peter 2:20
“For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God.”
Our behavior can make God proud. This is interesting, because we know that He has always loved us. Our actions cannot make Him love us more.
Paul puts much effort into Romans as he makes the case that we don’t earn God’s approval. This is an important point, as we are a guilt ridden people. When most reflexively think of God, a thought of having to earn approval comes up. People are often turned off by religion for this reason. It seems insurmountable. However, Paul makes the important point that we don’t have to earn His favor. He’s always loved us and Jesus’ death healed any division between God and people.
Yet, today’s passage speaks of God being pleased with us. The parent/child relationship illustrates this. We love our children, but we aren’t always happy with their behavior. They don’t stop being our children, even though their actions are contrary. So, also our behaviour can please or sadden God.
Today’s passage speaks of patiently enduring ill treatment. This is a difficult one for our culture. We seek to speak up and attempt to right the situation. It’s not wrong to do this. However, once we’ve brought up the injustice, can we trust that God’s got in under control and that He will work it out for the best?
Romans 8:28 tells that He causes all things to work for the good with His children that trust Him. We may be very disappointed with life’s events. They may be the opposite of our goals and wishes. It’s then that it takes faith to believe the situation can be salvaged. Do we trust Him? It makes Him glad, if we do.
This is a new level of maturity for a christian. There isn’t a guilt laced motivation which insincerely declares trust. There isn’t an ungrateful pouting about lifes roadblocks. There is a trust that He will use this to His and our advantage.
Lord, help us to trust You and help us to please You.