1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
Sometimes we may feel we are the only one going through a particular trial in life. This is a normal feeling, especially at the beginning of the trial. We may experience a sense of aloneness, isolation, or targeting. One of the first questions we tend to ask is, “Why me?” We may struggle with strong feelings and doubts. Peter tells his readers that we should not be surprised about the trials we face, especially if we are living like Jesus. If we follow in His footsteps, we should expect suffering of some type. In fact, if the darkness likes us and we experience no challenges, then we can ask if we are too much like it. Peter also states that trials are tests. He does not say here that God is the author of these trials. Rather, they come from other people who reject our holy lifestyle and our honest words filled with God’s grace and love, and sometimes conviction. We should not be surprised at the responses people give us when we live like Jesus. Tests can either deplete us spiritually and physically or they can strengthen our faith and resolve. This will require a decision. When we are weak and unable to choose wisely, God gives us brothers and sisters to hold our hands and lift us up in godly counsel.
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