What Is My Calling?Sample

Called to follow Jesus’ example

“If when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps.” (1 Peter 2:20-21 ESV)

The Lord Jesus had a unique mission on earth. He came to teach people about God's Kingdom and to bear the punishment for their sins. But He also set an example of living for God's glory. He did so perfectly, without a single misstep. We humans will not achieve that perfection here on earth. But we are called to follow Jesus' example as best we can, each and every day, by the power of His Spirit.

The apostle Peter learned this by trial and error. He had witnessed with his own eyes how Jesus responded to opposition and mistreatment: He did not retaliate or make threats, but left vengeance to God the Father (1 Peter 2:23). Peter himself responded very differently. He drew his sword and struck out when someone wanted to take Jesus prisoner (see John 18:10-11). But Jesus corrected him, and apparently Peter took that to heart. Years later, he wrote this letter about “patiently enduring” in imitation of Jesus. Peter was imprisoned several times for his faithfulness to Jesus, and eventually killed. His life is a powerful example of the life changing power of grace and of following Jesus, even in suffering.

Are you willing to endure injustice? How do you feel about being “called to this”?