Our Scripture reading today is 1 Peter 4:12-13.
Verse 13, "But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."
These verses mirror the theme of our Bible lesson last Wednesday. It is quite clear that everyone who is a faithful follower of the Lord Jesus will endure some level of persecution. The Apostle Peter encourages us to rejoice in this fact. We are given an opportunity to see the glory of God revealed in a way that we would not have. Suffering time is teaching time. The suffering that takes place allows us to know ever so slightly what Jesus Christ went through as well as many other disciples of Christ. His glory is being revealed in us as we endure challenging times.