Consider it a privilege

“For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.” Philippians 1:29 NLT

In an article titled, "How to Stop a Black Toenail From Ruining Your Runs, published by Runner's World recently, the writer said, "Black toenails in runners are often caused by repetitive trauma, which can result from running or from wearing any type of ill-fitting footwear. Keeping your toenails short, sizing up a half size in shoes, or wearing a thinner sock can help prevent black toenails from occurring in the first place. In mild cases, no treatment is needed, and the black nail will simply grow out. But if you’re in a lot of pain, your doctor can drain the blood from your nail, which relieves the pressure." The writer went on to explain that black toenails are both a bane (a cause of great distress or annoyance) and a badge of honor to runners; something that I can certainly attest to. I've not only celebrated losing toenails but so have the majority of my friends because it means we've done something most people will never do.. completed a lot of double digit runs and willingly endured a lot of suffering.

And you know, when it comes to suffering for an honorable reason, Paul told the church at Philippi that they had not only been given “the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.” These are privileges that you and I were given as well when we accepted Jesus as our Savior. In fact, this special right to suffer for the cause of Christ means we can and should willingly consider the hardships, temptations, and persecution we will encounter and be called to endure in our service to Him as “badges of honor” to be celebrated.

So commit yourself to serving the Father with all you have my friend. Then smile when you experience ill-treatment, hostility, oppression, and abuse for the cause of Christ, knowing what an absolute honor it is to trust Him and to suffer for Him.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that it’s a privilege to experience persecution for your Name’s sake. Cause this knowledge to spur us on to fulfill the calling You have placed on our lives Lord with no fear of the consequences. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!