Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:12,13, NIV)
War is tough, uncompromising, and unforgiving. And yet, American combat veterans who have fought and suffered for this nation will almost always tell you that the causes of freedom and justice were worth whatever hardships they experienced. They know that freedom isn’t free, but it’s worth the price.
Spiritual warfare involves suffering as well. Here the Apostle Peter is providing encouragement to early Christians going through tough trials. Some were probably on the verge of giving up. Peter’s message was a call to hang tough. He assured them that God would make it all worthwhile in the end.
Tough times exist today as well. Are you going through tough trials in your Christian walk? You may even be tempted to give up.
But God says, “Hang in there, soldier! Don’t give up! You will be richly rewarded for your faithfulness.”