FRIDAY October 30, 2026
Partakers of Christ’s Sufferings
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
1 Peter 4:12-13
Peter’s letter spoke to believers about suffering. First, they are to view fiery trials as normal. Seriously, in the life of a Christian, trials are to be expected. It is not easy being a follower of Christ; life will not be a bed of roses. Expect to endure persecution and rejection.
Second, in 1 Peter 4:16, the subject of suffering is continued: Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed.... There is no reason to be embarrassed about your faith in Jesus Christ. Third, in suffering, we are to realize that God has allowed suffering for His purposes: Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator (1 Peter 4:19). Peter wrote all these verses of Scripture to help believers place their eyes fully on Jesus Christ, not on their suffering. Jesus will give us His peace as we trust that He knows what He is allowing to happen in our lives. Consider His peace that is described in these verses:
Philippians 4:6-7: Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Isaiah 26:3-4: You [God] will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength.
When trials come, do not let anxiety plague your heart and mind––pray. God is there to meet your needs. Trust in the Lord and call upon His name. The suffering Christian must keep an eternal perspective.
It is suffering and then glory. Not to have the suffering means not to have the glory. If you don't have the suffering, you will never have the glory.
~Robert C. McLellan~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
