Reading: The Lord never promises that after we become Christians we will have an easy life. Actually, it’s the opposite. We are told in many books of the Bible that we are to expect trials and sufferings. What Peter is trying to tell us in these scriptures is that when we endure suffering, we are still blessed because of our eternal salvation in Christ. 

Back in this time, the Romans were in rule and persecuted most of the citizens. Peter is telling the Christians that we can handle this persecution because we have Jesus. He also tells us that we should be ready to tell people about Jesus when they ask how we are handling the situation so well. We should look different than the rest of the world through trial and suffering, and by doing so, God can advance his kingdom.

If there is one thing we know about the game of baseball, it is that it’s a game of failure. If you bat .400, you are one of the best in the game, and that means you still got out six out of ten times. This is the reason we teach young players to expect failure and how to handle it. More experienced baseball players and coaches let young guys know that they have to see the big picture. It’s not fun to fail, but we can learn from each failure. 

How do you respond? What’s your attitude? You have to lean on your coaches and teammates and know that even when you fail, they will be there to pick you up. The great thing about being a Christian is even when we fail, we know that Jesus has already won the game.

Reflection:  What kinds of failure (or maybe a specific failure) are you holding on to? Do you believe that Jesus has covered that failure in your repentance? And who have you reached out to for help through it?

Prayer Prompt: Jesus, I want to thank you for living the perfect life that I was never able to. Thank you that even when I fail, you are there, and I can be bold and secure in my faith because of you.