Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, don't be surprised or shocked that you are going through testing that is like walking through fire. ¹³ Be glad for the chance to suffer as Christ suffered. It will prepare you for even greater happiness when he makes his glorious return.

¹⁴ Count it a blessing when you suffer for being a Christian. This shows that God's glorious Spirit is with you.

^6 (A) Be humble in the presence of God's mighty power, and he will honor you when the time comes. ^7 (B) God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.

⁸ Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack. ⁹ But you must resist the devil and stay strong in your faith. You know that all over the world the Lord's followers are suffering just as you are. ¹⁰ But God shows undeserved kindness to everyone. That's why he appointed Christ Jesus to choose you to share in his eternal glory. You will suffer for a while, but God will make you complete, steady, strong, and firm. ¹¹ God will be in control forever! Amen.