“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” 1 Peter 4:12-14

Do you have friends that would tell you this brand of truth as Peter has in this passage of scripture? Who are you influenced by and who do you run to when you want to hear, as they say, the truth?Dealing with stress, adversity, persecution and isolation on the Christian walk can be tough, but the reality is when we follow Jesus Christ as Peter states–do not be surprised.

My friends rejoice when you seem to be the only one walking the walk and talking the talk when it comes to your faith in Jesus. Rejoice when you choose not to gossip at work just because others are doing it. Rejoice when you are the only one not having sex in high school. Rejoice when you choose not to cheat on your spouse even when your friend says you can get away with it. Rejoice when you make decisions based on your love for the Lord, for your reward is great.

When doing so, you are blessed dear one, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

DCL Ministries loves teaming up each month with Cherie Burbach’s online magazine called Putting On The New. Praise God for us all putting on our new identity in Jesus Christ. It is this new identity that will allow us all to walk with the authority and confidence in Christ as we rejoice in our sufferings.

You can read and enjoy this article titled “ Do Not Be Surprised” right here.

DCL Ministries