In 1 ST . Peter chapter 4 vs. 12 and 13 Peter says; “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you: but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” Peter referred to the return of Christ. As to when that day will occur we do not know.
Christians may suffer before His return. Matthew 5 vs. 45 says; “It rains on the just and unjust.” For those who know Jesus as Lord and Savior there is joy in knowing the meaning of Philippians chapter 3 vs. 20 which says; “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body.”
In a recent Pew Research article in the USA Today newspaper dated September 2, 2024 it says that in the 1990’s 9 of 10 American adults identified as Christian, by last year that number had dropped to 63%. That’s a stunning statistic which cannot be overlooked.
Has this country turned away from trust in the living God who sent us Jesus out of His love for mankind? In John chapter 6 the disciples of Jesus did not like what He said. Vs. 63 He says quote; “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit and they are life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” Vs. 66 thru 68 says; From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve; “Do you also want to go away?” But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
