Journal Entry by Jared Lawson

S – Scripture:1 Peter 4:12 – 15 (ESV)
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory[a] and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.

O - Observation
I enjoy the lengths that this scripture goes to remind you that trials are not strange, telling us not to ‘be surprised’ nor ‘consider it strange.’ Trials or in this case fiery trials are to be seen as normal. We will suffer, of that there is no doubt. Why we are suffering, or how we handle it, is up to us.

A - Application
This verse calls us to suffer trials for the right reasons. It is causing me to take stock of my trials. Is my current tension today because I was a meddler or an evil doer, have I brought this suffering on myself? Or is it because I am working to live the way God wants me to?

If I am suffering for the right reasons, I am blessed because the Spirit of Glory and of God rests upon me. I am also sharing in Christ’s sufferings, Jesus suffered more than I can imagine to save me. Whilst my work can never redeem a soul I can be part of leading someone to the great redeemer.

P - Prayer
Jesus, thank you for suffering for me. You suffered so I can be free, you have done what I could not. Help me to champion the right causes to seek your will and not my own comfort. May I suffer for the right reasons.