Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 1 Peter 4:12 

As we trust God through difficulties, trials can refine and strengthen our faith. (1:7; 4:12) 

If we belong to Jesus, we shouldn’t be surprised when we suffer like Jesus. 

How to rejoice in hard times (Philippians 4:4-8) 

>>Thank God for what He’s given. 

>>Remember what God says is true. 

When life gets hard, how can we stand firm? 

1. Expect it. 

Following Jesus doesn’t guarantee an easy life. It guarantees a faithful God in the middle of a hard life. 

2. Examine it. 

Is this the cost of following Jesus, a hardship I didn’t cause, or a choice I need to take responsibility for? 

3. Entrust it. 

Commit yourself to your faithful Creator and continue to do good. (4:19) 

We stand firm, knowing that God is with us and that Heaven awaits us.