Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church[.] Colossians 1:24
Today, while traveling in WV...I am mindful of how I did not offer time to the Lord in the morning (my first fruits) as I'd like do, but I am also mindful that I need to go to God daily and while it is late in the day it is my first opportunity to get online and not just focus my mind on God's message, I do want to document my time. For this opportunity, I go to DesiringGod.com's Solid Joys daily devotion, which today explores Colossians 1:24. I have previously reviewed this particular message from John Piper but it is nonetheless worthy of review. It is an astonishing message and deeply encouraging for those experiencing suffering. First, Piper describes how Christ's sacrifice was perfect - it lacked in nothing - "— except one thing, a personal presentation by Christ himself to the nations of the world." Now we should be careful to assume that Christ's death on the cross was anything less than perfect. Piper shares how "for the sake of [Christ's] body, that is, the church...[Paul and us] fill up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions." Piper then goes on to share how "[those in the church, including today and tomorrow] finish what they were designed for, namely, a personal presentation to the people who do not know about their infinite worth." Piper sums this up succinctly with a more full statement: "[Paul] says that it is his own sufferings that fill up Christ’s afflictions. This means, then, that Paul exhibits the sufferings of Christ by suffering himself for those he is trying to win to Christ. In his sufferings they are to see Christ’s sufferings....Here is the astounding upshot: God intends for the afflictions of Christ to be presented to the world through the afflictions of his people." Astounding indeed...those suffering are intended to carry Christ into the world by sharing in His afflictions and displaying how God's grace is sufficient. See also 2 Corinthians 12:9.
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, Your are so good...You are with me at all times, including in my suffering. Thank You Jesus for never leaving or forsaking me. I am not deserving of how You love and save me. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
