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Christ--Our Example

Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered.  Hebrews 5:8

 

The main reason Jesus died on the cross was to save us from our sins. But the New Testament also stresses the importance of His suffering as an example for us.

The Greek word for example comes from ancient school life. It refers to something written down by a teacher so it could be followed and copied exactly by a child learning to write. Christ is our copybook.  We look to Him as our teacher: His suffering gave us an example to follow, so we can learn how suffering is to be borne.

How did Jesus bear it? By not giving in to despair or doubt. By looking beyond His suffering and seeing the glory that was to come. By remembering that the Father was with Him and would use His suffering for good. We can do the same.

The author of Hebrews wrote: "Consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds" (12:3). Yes, consider Him.

From, HOPE for Each Day: Morning & Evening Devotions, by Billy Graham.