What to Expect as a Christian

“My friends, do not be surprised at the terrible trouble which now comes to test you. Do not think that something strange is happening to you. But be happy that you are sharing in Christ’s sufferings so that you will be happy and full of joy when Christ comes again in glory.” - 1 Peter 4:12-13

Do not be surprised to experience trials as a Christian. Many people believe becoming a Christian will be easy and think God promises only to bless them. The Bible says the opposite about what we will experience after becoming a Christian. God will test some by allowing them to be persecuted or allow some to suffer for their faith. We should not think it is strange or abnormal. It is a normal Christian experience because Christians who live a godly life and stand up for the faith will be hated or persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12).

We have no right to expect better treatment from the world than Jesus did. People hated Him because He stood up for the truth, He told people the truth about sin, who He was and why He came. Some knew Jesus taught that He was God and wanted to kill Him because He was a blasphemer. The disciples of Jesus were also treated unfairly and died standing up for their faith.

As children of God, we can rejoice and be happy when we have to suffer for our faith. We have a different hope than the nonbelieving people of the world do. Our hope is in Jesus, who saves us from eternal suffering. It is worth suffering now for His sake so we will be honored then with Him.

Prayer of the day:

Dear heavenly Father,

You sent Jesus to earth to die and suffer to save sinners. People hated Him so we should expect the same. When we do, help us to stand strong and not to reject Your truth under pressure. Help us to stand up firm for Your truth because Your truth can save people. Some people will hate us because we want to do what is right. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!