The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Peter 4:12-14, “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;
13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.
14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.”

We live in world that is full of surprises. Not all surprises, however, are to our liking or to our benefit. Simon Peter had experienced both. You and I have doubtlessly experienced both, also. “Fiery ordeal” may be something internal –something that requires medical examination. Yet, it may also mean external circumstances –something originating with or caused by the attitude or activity of another person.

What exactly are we to do in either situation? Peter’s instruction is to “keep on rejoicing.” Rejoicing, strange as it may sound, unveils “the revelation of His glory.” In other words, don’t allow negative experiences to drown out the excitement of the LORD’s presence. Just keep your eyes and thoughts on the LORD Jesus Christ!

I read recently an author’s self-assessment of Paul’s execution in Rome. Paul was not dragged “kicking and screaming” against his antagonists. Rather, he was praising the LORD for the privilege of giving his life for the One who gave His life for him.

That’s what Peter meant when he argued that we should rejoice when we are reproached, denounced, insulted, because we follow Christ. Is that your response to your critics, when they make fun of you for following Jesus? It should be, and it can be; but it comes from a day-by-day closeness with Him. Stay focused on His Word. Stay dependent on Him through prayer. He will then be your Guard and your Strength.

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

P. S. Please Pray for Ukraine. There are many believers there, many of whom are
risking their lives and those of their children in the effort to save their nation!

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America

“We never know that Christ is all we need until He becomes all that we have.” – Corrie ten Boom