Three types of suffering:
Common Suffering
Carnal Suffering
Christian Suffering
What do we do when we suffer for our faith?
REALIZE SUFFERING IS
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
1 Peter 4:12
Remember the word I spoke to you:
‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.
John 15:20 CSB
But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ…
1 Peter 4:13
Why should we rejoice in suffering?
Suffering
…These trials will make you partners with Christ in his suffering, and afterwards you will have the wonderful joy of sharing in his glory.
1 Peter 4:13b (LB)
Suffering Means
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed because of the Spirit of glory—the Spirit of God—is resting on you.
1 Peter 4:14 (GW)
Suffering Means
REFUSE TO
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
1 Peter 4:16 NIV
REMEMBER
These troubles and sufferings of ours are, after all, quite small and won’t last long. Yet this short time of distress will result in God’s richest blessing upon us forever and ever!
2 Corinthians 4:17 (LB)
Since we are God’s children…if we share in Christ’s suffering, we will also share in his glory.
Romans 8:17 (GN)
So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
1 Peter 4:19 ESV