1 Peter 4:12–19 (ESV)
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory
is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian,
let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And
“If the righteous is scarcely saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”
19 Therefore let those who
suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
Today’s reading is very blunt and direct. You are to expect trials and sufferings. Quit complaining,
and get on with it and serve to the glory of God. How can you get more direct than verse 12: “ Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar
as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.”
I pray: O Lord, help me to rejoice in my sufferings, seeing it as an opportunity to serve
you and reveal your Glory. Amen.