21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for [a]us, leaving [b]us an example, that you should follow His steps:
22 “Who committed no sin,
Nor was deceit found in His mouth”;
23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; (1 Peter 2:21-23 NKJV)
Silent suffering may be one of the hardest things we are called on to do in our effort to be like Christ. Human nature is to formulate a quick response to those who revile us. If we are honest, sitting in silence with others utter wrongs against us, well, it is just tough to do. This can especially be hard for all you, like me, Type A’s out there. We are used to responding quickly and in kind.
But Christ shows us a different way. He did not lash out at those who were lashing out against Him. He had a godly response that pointed back to scriptural truth which He provided with love and compassion. Even when He was on trial for His life and facing crucification, His responses were measured and spoke godly truth.
Reflect on: How we typically respond to those who revile us, and what we need to do to provide a more Christ like response. Maybe we can win someone over just by being kind.
