but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone 1 Pet 3:15.
Today’s verse reminds us once again, that being a Christian does not avoid us from Rough waters.
We don’t have to look any further than our forerunner Jesus, who faced many trails for our sake. So, we also will face many trials when walking with Him.
In John 16:33 – Jesus said – I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
In this chapter, Peter calls those who suffer as “Blessed” v14. Often, we look at our lives from earthly perspective, where in temporal blessings take precedence over eternal. We should remind ourselves, that those who suffer with him are blessed & will be glorified with him. (2 Tim 2:12)
In v15 peter encourages us when walking through trials, to honor Christ the Lord as holy i.e. to set aside our hearts as the place where Christ is fully honored as the Lord. He instructs Christians to focus intently on Christ’s role as our master ,living as if it was true in all cases, especially in suffering. And when Unbelievers see our blessed hope, they’ll be perplexed and request the reason for our joyous hope; Which is when, we state our Faith – in Him. Ultimately, it is Christ who will vindicate us.
God has his ways and we may not be able to comprehend all of it, but need to trust & walk with him. Joseph & Job were righteous man, yet faced trials. Blessings and sufferings both come from our lord (James 1:17 , 1 Pet 3:17 )
Jesus entrusted his life to God when he was on his earthly journey. – when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. – 1 Pet 2:23
Song: When Trials come – T4G
When trials come no longer fear
For in the pain our God draws near
To fire a faith worth more than gold
And there His faithfulness is told
And there His faithfulness is told