August 12 — "When Faith Feels Like Fire"

Today's Reading: 1 Peter 4

Have you ever been attacked, brutalized, or imprisoned for believing in Jesus? Chances are, most of us haven’t. But for countless early Christians, that was their everyday reality. When Peter wrote about “fiery trials,” he wasn’t indulging in poetic flair—he meant literal persecution, the kind that could cost you your life.

In the first century, following Christ came with brutal consequences: slander, chains, betrayal by loved ones, torture, and sometimes execution. And Peter’s response? Don’t be shocked when suffering shows up.

He wasn’t glossing over the pain. He was anchoring it to something glorious. These believers weren’t just enduring hardship—they were participating in the sufferings of Christ. And one day, they’d share in His glory, too.

Even today, there are corners of the world where being a Christian still puts you at risk—jailed, beaten, or worse. And even in relatively safe spaces, believers aren’t immune to the heat: mockery, missed promotions, broken relationships, and public backlash for standing firm in Biblical truth. Trials look different from place to place—but the truth hasn’t changed: persecution comes, and it’s never the final chapter.

Jesus said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me... Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven” (Matt. 5:11–12). He also promised, “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev. 2:10).

We don’t rejoice in the pain itself, but we absolutely can rejoice in the presence of the One who walks through it with us. Suffering becomes sacred when God enters the fire. He refines our faith, draws us nearer, strengthens what remains, and plants seeds of hope where despair once threatened to bloom.

So if you’re facing trials for your faith—lift up your head. You’re not alone. And you’re certainly not lost. You’re standing shoulder to shoulder with the saints, walking the same rugged road that leads—not to shame—but to everlasting glory.