“Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.” (I Peter 4:12)
Peter tells us not to let moments of suffering catch us by surprise or to find it strange for a follower of Jesus to experience trials in life. It is amazing to me that so many Christians feel that God should allow them to be immune from these common struggles of life. At times, these struggles cause people to question God's love and goodness and some stop following all together.
Maybe the problem is that we forget that we are a fallen creation. Sin entered the world against the desire of God and its results are felt by all of creation. Peter simply tells us to hold on and realize that though we are followers of Jesus, we too will experience suffering. The good news is that it is only temporary, and in the end, God is victorious even over our suffering.
IronMaker’s Daily Challenge: Pray for someone today by name that is going through suffering.
Prayer: Lord, give me strength in times of suffering and allow me to grow in grace and love during the process.
John Branning
Lead Pastor, Central United Methodist Church
Chaplain (MAJ) 185th Theater Aviation Brigade
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