The story of Christendom is characterized by many saints who stood faithful to their Lord in the midst of trouble. Even Peter, who denied the Lord, went on to suffer courageously for Christ. So let me share one of my favorite passages about persecution, 1 Peter 4:12-14.

“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.”

Here are some things we can take away from this wonderful passage to be encouraged when we see our fellow Christians standing strong in persecution or when we are in the middle of a trial ourselves.

1. We are not to be strangers to trials, and we’re not to think something strange is happening to us when we meet them. Even fiery ones are to be expected. Read More