“If you are ridiculed for the name of Christ, you are blessed because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” 1 Peter 4:14

Lord Jesus, I am not always content with the circumstances and conditions of my life. It seems I can always find something to complain about, something about my life that doesn’t make me happy. Lord Jesus, since that’s true, how in the world am I going to find contentment and blessing when I’m laughed at for being your follower!?! Lord Jesus, when suffering comes to me because of your name and because I’m confessing you, help me to realize what this means. Help me to remember that I’m suffering because I’m yours. The devil can’t stand to see me in your grasp and will make my life full of trouble to drive me out of your arms. I’m suffering because he’s after me. Help me to remember that I’m suffering because the world as a whole does not love you. I’m suffering because I stand out as your follower in this sin-darkened world. Help me to remember who I am. And then, dear Lord, help me to realize and remember the blessedness of resting in your mercy and grace. Help me to find joy in suffering for you. Amen.