1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 (NRSV)
Read 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 on biblegateway.com
Verse 12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. Verse 13But rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may also be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed. Verse 14If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory, which is the Spirit of God, is resting on you. Verse 6Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Verse 7Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.
Verse 8Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Verse 9Resist him, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering.
Verse 10And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. Verse 11To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.
Devotion
It can be hard for North Americans to imagine that there are still places in the world where Christians are persecuted because of their faith. Thankfully, few of us have to endure taunts or torture for what we believe.
Yet, our faith can lead us to suffer in other ways:
Ask the faithful father whose son has turned away from the church.
Ask the lonely wife who worships alone because her husband 'doesn't get anything out of it.'
Ask the aging congregation whose future looks as empty as its Sunday school classrooms.
Whether it is our bodies or our souls that are hurting, Jesus told the disciples that those who suffered because of their faith in him were not forsaken, but blessed (Matt. 5:11). Even when we don't feel hopeful, God is still with us. And, Peter reminds us, despite our trials, God's word will endure.
Prayer
Merciful Lord, bless those whose burdens seem too great to bear. Turn their hearts to you and ease their pain. Give each of us strength for the journey and assurance of your faithfulness, even -- especially -- in the midst of suffering. Amen.