SCRIPTURE
1 Peter 4:12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
OBSERVATION
It’s no surprise…that trials, tests, hardships… are a part of life. And it’s no surprise that Peter writes “Do not be surprised…” Just a few sentences earlier In verse 7, he warns that “the end is near.”
In relationships, when someone’s end is nearing, family and friends pull together to love and serve their suffering loved one, while supporting one another. It seems among the in fighting that was occurring among Christians in Peter’s day, that he commands them “above all, to love one another…deeply!”
Peter’s endearing words and heart…”Dear friends” to me, summons fellow believers to count their suffering as joyous participation with the sufferings of Jesus. The reward is the overjoy experience when we meet Jesus face to face.
APPLICATION
I can’t imagine being invited to participate – to join a team of friends or family… to suffer with each other. “Hey! You wanna join me for an exciting, adventurous experience? Come, let’s suffer together!”
Of course there’s no joking here when it comes to people’s suffering. It’s not glamorous or inviting to join others in their suffering – or inviting others to join me in my suffering.
- I need my family and friends – to be with me when I’m suffering – going through a test or trial! So Rod – don’t be like “I got this one or I can handle or I don’t want to inconvenience you…!
- Also Rod, don’t be shocked when a difficult, unforeseen test or trial comes my way. Be mindful and best prepared knowing that “the end is near” and Peter reminds me that I need others (love, forgiveness, grace, prayers, support).
- I want to be more prepared, strengthened in heart, spirit, mind – in Jesus and His Word, to be humble and confident to ask for help when I need prayer, etc.
PRAYER
Dear Jesus – I have too much….so much pride. That what comes to mind as I consider suffering for You. I don’t like asking for help, especially when I’m weak, sick, going through something difficult. Forgive me of all my sins!! Oh God – You are so gracious and good, as I sense Your awesome unconditional love and acceptance. Thank You for guiding and convicting me, with tons of grace to choose obedience – to ask for help as You guide me to. And thank You sooooooo much for my awesomeness wife! She’s soooo much like You…. seeing my best, experiencing my worse – and she still loves, cares, serves…me in my suffering, Help me to LOVE HER LIKE YOU!
