Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. 1 Peter 4:12-14

So you think its going to be easy to be a Christian? I know you heard it before just repeat this prayer or just do this or that, and here is your golden ticket to Heaven. Dear friends, while grace and salvation are a free gift from God, make no mistake about it , there is a price to pay, and Jesus said “to save your life you must lose it” (Matthew 16:25) The Lord also said “If anyone wants to be my disciple, they must deny themselves, carry their cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24)

With all that being said, as the Apostle Peter says here under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit “Beloved, don’t think its strange or surprised about the fiery trial which is to try or test you” Don’t be surprised if you might suffer when you become a Christian. The false prophets want to tell you that following Jesus is all about health, wealth , and happiness, this is not Biblical. In fact its the opposite, when you are covered by the blood of Christ, you have become a target for the demons. Satan is going to come after you, like a wolf that stalks its prey in the wild. You are going to be attacked, you are going to be tested, you are probably going to be persecuted, some might have to even give up their lives, but you already have victory in Jesus Christ

As the Apostle Peter says “But rejoice,as you participate in the sufferings of Christ” When you are attacked, when you suffer for Christ’s sake, you are doing for God’s glory. The reason you are being attacked, is because Satan hates The Lord Jesus Christ, you are being attacked because of your Lord Jesus, so wear it as a badge of honor. Consider it an honor, that the evil one recognizes that you are one of God’s sheep, consider it pure joy, whenever you face trials of many kinds (James 1:2)

Think about it, your Lord suffered and died for your salvation, do you not think you should suffer also? If Satan was willing to kill the Son of God, do you not think he would be willing to come after you? Don’t be decieved , brothers and sisters, you were bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20) Your life belongs to Jesus Christ, not yourself, take heart The Lord holds the salvation of your soul in His hands and nobody can take that aways from you! (Matthew 10:28)

If you are insulted or reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed!” Think about that, if you are persecuted for The Lord you are blessed, that’s a different definition of being blessed than the world’s definition. Consider it a badge of honor to suffer for our Lord Jesus Christ, who laid down his life for you, Amen!