I count all things but loss….that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death. —Philippians 3:8-10

The apostle Paul counted everything in life but loss so that he could experience as much as possible the life and power of Christ. Purportedly, Paul was beheaded for his faith. Based on his writings, I am confident that Paul welcomed this as he welcomed many other hardships in life.

The Lord Jesus left the splendor of Heaven, came to this sinful world to experience life and gave Himself as a sacrifice for our sin. We owe Him a debt that can never be paid for the gift of salvation and eternal life. It is an honor and blessing to drink of the cup of suffering with Christ.

Origen, an early Christian scholar, says that the apostle Peter felt himself to be unworthy to be put to death in the same manner as his Master, and was therefore, at his own request, crucified with his head downward.

Our sufferings can never compare to the sufferings of Christ. He was rejected, betrayed, denied, lied about, misrepresented, spit upon, whipped, and crucified.  Oh child of God, be not dismayed nor discouraged in time of sufferings and trial. “But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:13).

—mws