Sometimes we do stupid things and we have to suffer the consequences. If we stick a fork in an electrical socket, we’ll get shocked. If we steal something, we’ll eventually get thrown in jail. If we lie to our friends, we’ll eventually loose them as friends. If we drive over the speed limit, we’ll eventually get a ticket.
Oh yea, and if we keep on doing things for the sake of God and not the world, we will suffer for it because God calls us to do things that are just plain different than the world teaches. We are called to love people…all people. We are called to forgive people…everyone. We are called to stand up for the poor and against the wicked. We are called to have difficult conversations with people that may not want to hear them. We are called to focus on God, our family and our work…and not the other way around.
We are called to be different. We are called to keep on doing what is right and to trust our lives to God.
So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you. 1 Peter 4:19 (NLT)
I know some of you are suffering greatly because you “keep on doing what is right”. I know some of you have lost family, friends and jobs because you “keep on doing what is right”. I know some of you have lost great wealth and security because you “keep on doing what is right”.
But be encouraged, and keep on doing! There is no speed limit when it comes to doing what is right. Act wisely, but act boldly and confidently! As David encouraged Solomon, so I encourage you to be strong and courageous and do the work! God is with you! He will not fail you or forsake you!
David also said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished. – 1 Chronicles 28:20 (NIV)
