What Will We Choose?

1 Peter 4:1-2 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

Peter continues the thought from the previous chapter. Since therefore we are dead, buried, and resurrected with Christ, and He suffered for us, we are to take on the same mind as Christ. Our willingness to suffer, even if unto death, is a weapon to use against the enemy. The word "arm" Peter used means to equip oneself with weapons. The enemy's desire is that we forsake our relationship with the Lord when we experience persecution and suffering. The devils want us to be convinced that God does not care, and that He is wrong for allowing us to suffer. However, we are called to counter those attacks by taking on the mind of Christ and enduring with joy and peace, knowing that our suffering here on earth is only for a short while. Peter goes on to remind us that because we are alive in Christ, we are dead to sin. Therefore, we are not to choose sin in response to times of suffering. We are to forsake the world, its ways, and the lust thereof. We are to commit our lives to serving Jesus. Romans 6:6 states it best, "Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that we should no longer serve sin." 2 Corinthians 5:15 also tells us, "And that He died for all, that they who live should no longer live unto themselves, but unto Him who died for them, and rose again." Living for Jesus with joy in the midst of persecution and suffering is a choice. When it comes, and it will, what will we choose?

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).