1 Peter 4:13 NIV | “But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”

Atmosphere determines what thrives. The apostles saw trials and suffering for Christ as a thing of joy. They were fed that suffering for God is glory.

Our attitude in the midst of our self denial and suffering for God either repels, or draws men to God. In spite of the possibility of their death, Shadrack, Meshach, and Abednego’s unwavering faith in God brought King Nebuchadnezzar and the entire nation to God. Paul and Silas’ denial of their flesh – not running away when the prison doors miraculously opened – inspired the jailer and his family’s conversation.

You become what you eat. What you feed on either forms or deforms you. Today, we’re being fed with junk. We’re taught that suffering cannot mark a believer’s life since ‘God has given us everything for our enjoyment’. We’re taught to self-preserve and live for ourselves. Our power and impact, however, is in our death and denial. Help us Lord!