1st Peter 2:21. “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:” HIS STEPS. It is a part of life we would like to do without – Injustice is frustrating when it continually comes about. But it should not surprise us, for to follow we are called – The Lord Jesus endured much more when He was in the world.
At home He was despised, a stranger to His brothers. In Nazareth He found no honor, He was treated worse than others. So, it is no surprise when the same things happen to me – If I am following His steps, that’s what I expect to see.
It should not bring resentment if I’m misunderstood. Not that I want it to happen, I would avoid it if I could. But the steps of the Lord are different He walked a lonely path – Even when He blessed others from many it brought wrath.
I know that we live different lives, our Sundays are for God. Others think it strange we keep that day set for the Lord. When we travel far, we want to meet with the believers – And we find the language strange, but the saints gladly receive us.
His steps went where God wanted to bring others divine blessing. My steps too should go where God’s will I am committed to pleasing. His steps led to suffering so I should not be surprised If I too am rejected because God’s truth I dare not hide.
His steps led to death; I am not sure where mine will lead. But this I know; it is right when His calling I will heed. His example is plain – for God’s glory here to earth He came. I am here on earth at the present, so for my God I will do the same.
“I know I am not able to imitate deity, but I am called to follow my Lord’s humanity. So, Father God, I need the courage to travel the rough roads. Help Thy servant I pray. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
He never retaliated against those who allied themselves against Him. Neither should we. When He was insulted, He never returned insults. Neither should we. When physical suffering was put on Him, He never threatened those who hurt Him. Neither should we. When He was under the pain of thorns, nails, bones out of joint, a beaten back, reproach and humiliation, He was still full of love and compassion. He committed everything to God His Father. So, should we. When we truly commit a matter to God, we can leave it there knowing that in His own time and way, righteousness will prevail.
When He "bare our sins in His own body on the tree," He was sacrificed for us for us as our substitute. His suffering work for us as our substitute. His suffering work for us was that which saved us from the righteous wrath of God. This was a once for all accomplishment that never had to be repeated. The result is that we are separated from our sins by love for Him and loyalty to Him in a practical and on-going way. The motivation is so great that when we appreciate what he did for us, how could we go on sinning when He has done such a great work for us? Now the goal of life is to "live unto righteousness.