MI DAILY DEVOTION
THURSDAY
MOSES SUFFERED AFFLICTION WITH THE PEOPLE OF GOD
(Hebrews 11:25) Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
Moses lived by faith but it does not keep him out of suffering. Godly suffering is a choice. Saul had an encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ when he was on his way to Damascus to kill and persecute the Christians. When Saul of Tarsus was called by the Lord for salvation and service; God actually called Saul to suffer for His sake too and he had the choice to refuse or accept the offer of the Lord. Then God appointed Ananias to meet and pray for Saul. Ananias argued with God regarding Saul’s evil intention and ungodly deeds. But notice what the Lord said to him; But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 16- For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. (Acts 9:15- 16) I recently notice the significant of the word “must” in verse 16. Suffering for Saul was not only a matter of choice; but it was also God’s choice for 2 reasons: 1- for he is a chosen vessel unto me 2- to bear my name- a) “before the Gentiles”- to the whole population. b) “…and kings”- to the politicians. c) “…and the children of Israel”- to the people of God. Moses has a different story and scenario. Those who have different perspective or outlook in life may conclude that Moses was crazy because he refused the provisions, pleasures and what palace and the kingdom of Pharaoh can offer. Moses did not only suffer with the people of God, but he suffered with God on his side. Peter said; But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14- If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. (I Peter 4:13- 14)
