1Pe 4:12 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.

This weekend Lori and I watched a sermon series based on these verses from 1Peter. One of the main themes that he said in preaching through this was that we, as Christians, often find it surprising when we encounter various trials. He believes, as do I, that the American church doesn’t do an adequate job preparing her children for the difficulties that come our way. (And yes,  I know I’m generalizing here)

In America it used to have some social benefit for an individual to claim to be a Christian. That benefit is changing and the pendulum now seems to be swinging in the opposite direction. We are now in a place somewhere between not socially accepted and outright persecuted depending on the circles we are in, jobs we have, or parts of the country we live in.

Peter instructs us today that we should not be surprised when we go through fiery trials. The Lord has really been impressing on my heart lately this message, especially in the culture we live in currently. Jesus bore our shame and suffered for us as He went to the cross for the glory of the Father. Therefore, we too will suffer for the glory of God as we profess our faith and walk in obedience.

I have heard it said that if you aren’t receiving some form of persecution, criticism, or trials because of your Christian faith then you probably aren’t sharing your faith with others enough. I really believe this is true. I know that if I just try to live a good life, never sharing the Gospel message, I look like my neighbor. If I am nice to people, don’t use profane language, and help out someone in need here and there, I look just like my neighbor. Christianity isn’t simply doing good for others, it is doing good in the name of Jesus Christ and letting people know that is what your purpose is.

Don’t be surprised at the fiery trial as though it were something strange. When we encounter the trials and persecution for our faith and respond with joy, that is what should be strange. Not to us, but to those around us that don’t know Christ. Peter tells us earlier in this letter to always be prepared to give an answer to others about the hope that is in you. When trials, health issues, job losses and the like come our way and we respond in confidence that God is with us, that is what will surprise people. That is the “hope that is in you” that Peter is talking about.

Difficulties are a natural part of life for everyone, not just Christians. So when we respond with joy, hope, and love, then we have something to offer the world that is different than anything they have ever encountered.

Lord, help me to see the challenges I face as opportunities to share the hope that is in me. Forgive me for getting so worked up about things sometimes and taking my focus off of you and your great love for me. Give me the strength to endure today! Amen