1 Thessalonians 1

6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.
It took me one year of Bible reading to come to the point of which I could thoroughly understand the scriptures for myself. And when I did, I didn't view  suffering as so bitter. Having caught Gastroke yesterday I was deadset on putting aside scripture and indulging myself in mindless action movies. To me, I was more desperate for my own comfort than reminding myself God's free gift of salvation. However I eventually mustered up the half hearted perseverance to compile a rushed reflection even still proving that I'm so numb to my self centred nature. It was an improvement, but I know that God deserves for more of a better effort. When I read through the persecution of prophets such as Micah or Jeremiah I find it embarrassing that when I face unfortunate endeavours I only think for my self benefit. As someone who studies Scripture on a daily, I have to remember than my saviour suffered far more than a petty stomach flu and still went through discomfort so I could be with Him. I am to expect hardships and I pray that I'll adapt a mentality such as the persecuted Churches who endure despite the world throwing everything at them.