Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4:12-13 Isn't it funny how we latch on to the "good" promises of the Bible, but then forget the verses where we're promised hardship and suffering for following Christ? I don't know about you but for me any time I have a hard time, or a hard and challenging year like this past one has been, I immediate do think of it as "strange". We immediately start asking question, "Why is this happening to my family, what good could come of it? Why does everything hit at once?" It's our human nature to be bewildered and demanding. We all wish life could just be easy and always great, right? As the Bible says, there really is nothing new under the sun. As I study the Bible more and more I'm amazed at the similarities of … [Read more...]