DAILY READINGS: Leviticus 16; Psalm 119:113-144; Mark 6:1-29
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fi ery trial which is to try
you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. 1 Pet. 4:12
One of the key themes of Peter’s fi rst epistle is suff ering. In this short
section (4:12-19), he tells us that suff ering is to be expected (v. 12); is
a good thing (vv. 13-14); should be for the right reasons (vv.15-16);
must begin with believers (vv. 17-18); and that it is the will of God
(v. 19). He also tells us that suff ering should not be “strange” to us.
In other words, suff ering in the life of a believer should be seen as
a part of the normal Christian experience. Though hard at the time,
He will use it for His glory and our good. —Craig Funston
Jesus knows all about our struggles; He will guide till the day is done.
There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus! No, not one! No, not one!—J. O. Jr.