Ever wondered why trials and tribulations seem to strike without warning, leaving us bewildered? If you've pondered these questions, our sermon "This Is Not a Surprise" is for you. We'll dive into 1 Peter 4:12-19 to uncover profound insights.

Through this spiritually enlightening sermon, we'll uncover a powerful truth: trials are not random disruptions, but rather integral parts of our journey. Guided by the wisdom of Peter's words, we'll discover how trials refine us, fortify our faith, and lead us to a greater purpose.

Prepare for a perspective shift that empowers you to face challenges with unwavering faith and newfound courage. Let trials become stepping stones, propelling you toward a life of significance.

1 Peter 4:12 -19 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though something strange were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that at the revelation of His glory you may also rejoice and be overjoyed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory, and of God, rests upon you. 

15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner? 19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God are to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.”

1 Corinthians 1:8 “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.”

1 Corinthians 1:9 “Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. “

1. I CAN HAVE AN , EVEN WHEN LIFE IS MISERABLE. 

“13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that at the revelation of His glory you may also rejoice and be overjoyed.”

Acts 5:41 “so they went on their way from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for his name.” 

“We are at Jesus’ disposal. If he wants you to be sick in bed, if he wants you to proclaim His work in the street, if he wants you to clean the toilets all day, that’s all right, everything is all right. We must say, “I belong to you. You can do whatever you like.” And this ..is our strength, and this is the joy of the Lord.” – Mother Teresa

Psalm 94:18-19 “When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”

2. I CAN GIVE MY LIFE TO , EVEN WHEN EVERYTHING AROUND ME IS .

1 Peter 4:3 “3 For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of indecent behavior, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties, and wanton idolatries.”

Romans 6:13-14  “That means you must not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your lives. Don’t give it the time of day. Don’t even run little errands that are connected with that old way of life. Throw yourselves wholeheartedly and full-time—remember, you’ve been raised from the dead!—into God’s way of doing things. Sin can’t tell you how to live. After all, you’re not living under that old tyranny any longer. You’re living in the freedom of God.”

“A man dies when he refuses to stand up for that which is right. A man dies when he refuses to stand up for justice. A man dies when he refuses to take a stand for that which is true.” – Martine Luther King Jr.

3. I CAN ENTRUST MY  TO GOD, HE KNOWS HOW TO TAKE  OF ME. 

1 Peter 2:23 “When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.”

Luke 23:46 “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Melting by Isla Vista worship “I used to fight and try to hold you back, but now there’s nothing I won’t let you have. Your love is melting my heart again, it’s making its way within my veins, I’m getting warmer everyday, cause your love is melting my fears away, the comforter’s here now I know I’m never really on my own.”