“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you.” – 1 Peter 4:12
When new roads are built or old roads are being reconstructed, there is signage placed along the highway stating, “Detour Ahead,” “Crews At Work,” or “Merge.” Why do crews place things like that out on the road? Well, it prevents any surprises that may distract drivers and cause an accident. In a similar way, Paul reminds believers of some spiritual signage that states “Opposition Ahead.” This allows believers to be on alert, diminishing the surprise when it does come. This verse reminds us that, as Jesus followers, as we live on mission daily, we should expect opposition in the world for we are living in a place not our own as citizens of a different Kingdom (Philippians 3:20).
When you face opposition because of your walk with Jesus, how do you respond?
