Christians may become surprised when fiery ordeals appear in their lives. They may ask: Why am I suffering so much when I believe in Christ? The problems could be health issues, financial issues, family issues, etc. But Peter says in v. 13, “But rejoice as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ.”

How can we rejoice when we are suffering? The rest of v.13 tells us: “So that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” Our suffering will not end in misery, failure, or shame. Rather, through suffering, the glory of Jesus will be revealed. Peter further goes on to say: We are blessed if we are insulted because of the name of Christ. If we suffer as a Christian, we should praise God since we are bearing his name.

This is our glorious life of glorious suffering. We sometimes despair because, while bearing the name of Christ, we may be insulted and outcasted in our job, our school, or even our community. But if we bear Jesus’ name to the end, we are blessed, and the glory of Jesus will be revealed through our lives.
Application: Lord, help us to rejoice in your suffering while waiting for your glorious return!
One Word: Help us rejoice in our suffering