Good morning!
Text: 1 Peter 4 (Job 9-10)
Ever have one of those unpleasant surprises – like when you get into a fender bender or step on somebody else’s chewing gum on a hot sidewalk? And then you say to yourself, “Oh, no! How could this be happening to me?” Consider 1 Peter 4:12-13:
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. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
We should expect troubles in this Christian life. Trouble is not the exception, not the extraordinary thing, but part of our routine. The Word here helps us put unforeseen difficulty into perspective. In particular, it helps us insulate ourselves from a victim mentality. It helps us keep going when the going gets tough. And, it helps us to stay close to the Lord when we need Him the most. So… something going wrong in your life? Rejoice!
in Him, Mike