Key Ideas
Faith Fact
I will trust Jesus even if it’s hard.
Faith Verse
Proverbs 3:5–6 (NLT)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Question of the Day: What should I do when it gets hard to follow Jesus?
Read about It
Read: 1 Peter 4:12–16
When have you been surprised by something really amazing? Now, think about a time you were surprised by something that maybe wasn’t so good, like stubbing your toe, a surprise test, or having a special trip canceled unexpectedly. Sometimes, it can be really fun to be surprised, and at other times, being surprised can be pretty bad.
In today’s verses, Peter told Christians not to be surprised when they go through challenges, or trials. Peter knew this very well! As one of Jesus’ closest followers during His time on earth, some people were very mean to Peter. So, he wanted other Christians to be ready if that happened to them. Some people think that being a follower of Jesus is always easy. It’s not! But even when we have trials, we can be glad. Those times of suffering bring us closer to Jesus, the One who suffered on the Cross for us. So, if people are mean to you for believing in Jesus, don’t be surprised. Instead, be prepared and praise God anyway.
Talk about It
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Question 1. What do today’s verses say should you do when you go through trials for being a Christian? Answer 1. “Be very glad.” (1 Peter 4:13)
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| Question 2. Why do you think some Christians are surprised by challenges in life?
Answer 2. Answers may vary.
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| Question 3. What do the verses say will happen if someone insults you for being a Christian?
Answer 3. “You will be blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you.” (1 Peter 4:14)
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| Question 4. How can remembering that Jesus suffered on the Cross for us help when we suffer?
Answer 4. Answers may vary.
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| Question 5. How will you respond if someone is mean to you because you believe in Jesus?
Answer 5. Answers may vary. |
Pray about It
Dear Jesus, thank You for suffering on the Cross because You love me. I choose to keep following You even if I have to suffer, too. When challenges and trials happen, help me to trust You! Amen.