“Dear friends, don’t be surprised when the fiery ordeal comes among you to test you as if something unusual were happening to you. Instead, rejoice as you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may also rejoice with great joy when his glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:12-13

Lord God, I am often surprised when hardship and trouble comes to me. I am often caught off guard by the reaction that people have to me as a Christian. But I shouldn’t be. If people reacted to you, and even hated you, Lord Jesus, why would it be any different for me, a simple follower? If people turned on you and even crucified you, why would I expect that they would all love me and receive me with welcome arms? If they rejected your message, they will often reject mine. If they turned on you, they will often turn on me. Lord Jesus, when suffering and rejection comes to me because of your name give me joy because I’m suffering with you. More than that, Lord Jesus, help me see and remember the joy that is set before me, an eternity of heaven with you. Keep me from being surprised. Rather, help me to find joy in suffering for you. Amen.