1. Suffering...suffering? What kind of perk is that? It actually seems to be one of God's "favorite perks" because He tells us that Christ suffered so we are walking that road when we endure persecution of our faith, and all the other trials and tribulations that befall a broken world.
2. Discipline and shaping...so this is a perk as well? Yes, because we are wired to exercise and grow our self-control. Every time we apply discipline to our responses to others, the care of our body and growth in our relationship with God, we know deep down that we are doing the right things.
3. Best friend...God is a friend? He says so through Jesus' words in John 15: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I'm no longer calling you servants because servants are not in on what their master is thinking and planning. No, I've named you friends because I've let you in on everything I've heard from the Father.
4. Intimacy...here and in heaven. There is an eternal perk for wanting to be a part of God's design. Not only do we suffer, shape and enjoy a best friend; there is a someday for each of us that can open up the true perk that God offered in the beginning: an unbroken fellowship with God and each other, timeless, with perfect love and perfect joy as the atmosphere of every day.
And best of all, it's our choice. No one is forced to enjoy #4. Isn't letting us choose the greatest perk of all?
