Hebrews 2:10-18 | What am I going to do about it?

Scripture spends a lot of words discussing the believer's mindset around suffering. In fact, we are specifically instructed to have a mind that joins in suffering. There are some serious promises that come along with those who embrace the mindset of suffering that Jesus did as well. I will confess, as I know I am in good company, that I am not that eager for suffering. But I ought not seek to avoid it as I do. Take a look at this following passage form 1 Peter.

Christ, our Captain, has suffered for us in the flesh. We are told to arm ourselves with that same mind. When we arm ourselves with that same mind, Scripture says we have ceased from sin! Now that is a bold statement that absolutely requires some explanation. Consider this for a moment, Jesus, who embraced this mindset around suffering, was without sin. the Scripture says He was made perfect through suffering. He never compromised due to suffering, but continued to walk in obedience, confirming His righteousness. That may be interesting enough, but how does that make us cease from sin? Let me ask this question in response. Why do you give into temptation? Is it not comforts that often drive you to your sins? There is suffering in denying temptation! When we have built our mindsets around avoiding suffering when at all possible, we make ourselves a perfect candidate for giving into temptation. It will end the suffering. But when we are armed with the mind of Christ around suffering, we will not live for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

A simple application that may drive us forward is the simple adage, "Do hard things." Build your life with discipline. Wake up early to get into the word. Eat a healthy diet. Work out and be active. When suffering comes, go through it, don't dodge it. Don't fear confrontation, but embrace it. Struggle through your relationships and fight for reconciliation on the other side. Stop running away. Learn to be comfortable with suffering for,

if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ
-1 Peter 1:6b-7

The Lord is working out our faith and perfecting it through much of our suffering. Let us keep our eyes on things above that we would see the move of God through these. Follow the Good Shepherd. Follow the Captain of our salvation.

What application are you implementing today?