I Peter 4:12-19 (NRSV)
Read I Peter 4:12-19 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 15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, a criminal, or even as a mischief maker. Verse 16Yet if any of you suffers as a Christian, do not consider it a disgrace, but glorify God because you bear this name. Verse 17For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God; if it begins with us, what will be the end for those who do not obey the gospel of God? Verse 18And "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinners?" Verse 19Therefore, let those suffering in accordance with God's will entrust themselves to a faithful Creator, while continuing to do good.
Devotion
When do you try to do good? When your spouse, boss, pastor or family is around? Why do you try to do good? To impress someone, to earn some reward, to get saved?
This passage disabuses us of any notion that, as Christians, we have a guarantee of goodies from God. In fact, we are told not to be surprised or to think it strange that we find ourselves suffering and passing through fiery ordeals. So much for the "prosperity gospel."
Yet we are strongly encouraged, despite all appearances to the contrary, to entrust ourselves to a faithful creator and to continue to do good. Why? Because Christ, the only one who is truly good, enters into the fullness and depth of our humanity. God shows no restraint in loving us and this love compels us to continue to do good for others.
Prayer
Good and Gracious God, enlarge our hearts, open our ears and eyes and give us courage and strength in our serving, so that all might come to know you and your love for them. Amen.