The Third Sunday in Lent

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. 14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. ~ 1 Peter 4:12-16 (NASB)

Heavenly Father, Jesus promised us life abundant, and too often, I think that means I should have an easy life. Yet Your Word says to rejoice in trials and persecution—if we are being persecuted for following Christ. If I am persecuted as a result of my own misdeeds, I am just getting what I deserve. But if I suffer for being a Christian, I should rejoice. Help me to accept trials and sufferings as You want me to. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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