Devotion for Sunday, October 23, 2022

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

Rejoice in Christ.  Rejoice in being considered worthy to suffer with and for Him.  Do not lament, but know that the Lord is growing in You, quite literally, the image of Christ.  Be led by Him into the life for which He is preparing you.  Be guided by the truth that He is always with You and knows all that you need.  Everything will make perfect sense when you come into perfection.

Lord, You have told me that now I am looking in a mirror dimly, but when that day comes, I will know even as I have always been fully known.  Lead me Lord in the way of everlasting life.  Guide me according to Your goodness to know that in You is hope and truth.  Let me not be led aside by what really are momentary distractions in this world, but instead, help me take joy in all that You are doing.

Lord Jesus, You walked the Via Delarosa, the way of sorrow and pain.  You went to the cross for us all.  Help me, I pray, to live through whatever may come knowing that in You is all hope and an eternal glory which is yours.  Keep my faith simple and pure.  Guide me in Your goodness to know that in every situation, You are there and when things are tough, You truly understand.  Help me keep my eyes upon You.  Amen.