Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you^(A) to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice^(B) inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ,^(C) so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.^{(D) 14} If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,^(E) you are blessed,^(F) for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

⁶ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.^{(A) 7} Cast all your anxiety on him^(B) because he cares for you.^(C)

⁸ Be alert and of sober mind.^(D) Your enemy the devil prowls around^(E) like a roaring lion^(F) looking for someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him,^(G) standing firm in the faith,^(H) because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.^(I)

¹⁰ And the God of all grace, who called you^(J) to his eternal glory^(K) in Christ, after you have suffered a little while,^(L) will himself restore you and make you strong,^(M) firm and steadfast. ¹¹ To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.^(N)