1 Peter 4
September 6, 2022
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” (v12-13)
I don’t know why I’m surprised when pain or suffering comes my way (or anyone’s way). The Scriptures clearly warn that suffering will mark the chapter of the story we’re in right now - even for Christians. In fact, for Christians, this suffering is not just something we’re called to endure. It’s also a means for “rejoicing” (v13a), because it gives us the opportunity to participate in the sufferings of Christ, and so to experience the strength and sufficiency of Christ - in anticipation of the return of Christ (v13b).
Father, I praise You that suffering is not the end of the story for Your children who are experiencing painful days right now. As Amanda and I prayed yesterday for the many who are going through deep, dark waters, it was overwhelming. There is so much pain that so many of Your people are experiencing: physical, emotional, and relational pain. But I praise You that this pain is not only an opportunity for us to draw closer to Christ now; it will be a means of experiencing greater joy when He returns, and sets this broken world to rights. And so, encourage me (and all of Your people) today with that promise and that perspective about our pain.
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
