1 Peter 2:21
To this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.
The best thing about following Christ is that He has gone before us. Jesus Christ is our role model. When we live as He did, we know we’re walking in the will of God. The path may seem treacherous at times, but we look at the example of Christ who has gone before us.
Peter’s advice in today’s verse was originally meant for Christian slaves who faced unjust suffering. He reminded them that Christ also suffered for doing good, and encouraged them to submit to their earthly masters.
In today’s world, many of us face oppression, injustice, and marginalisation. Peter’s advice applies to us as well. We are to follow the footsteps of Christ, who did not retaliate. Instead, we cast our cares on the Lord, trust that He is a righteous judge, and wait for His vindication. When we are slandered or treated unjustly, we can abide by the principles of God’s Word and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts, words, and actions.
Jesus Christ submitted to the cross – not to gain people’s approval but in obedience to God. In the same way, we can submit to the authorities God has placed over us because we want to honour God through our obedience. We don’t expect our reward from people but from God, who sees the end from the beginning.
Prayer: Lord, when I have to deal with difficult people in my life, may I remember that you see my intentions. Help me follow in Your footsteps – showing love and kindness to those around me. Thank You for leading the way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
