1. Do not be surprised. (I Peter 4:12) “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.” A. Warnings help us to prepare. B. Hardships come to everyone. Some people are surprised because they assumed Christianity would make life easier. 2. Ask yourself, why am I suffering? (I Peter 4:15) “If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.” A. Are you suffering because of bad decisions or behavior? (I Peter 4:15) B. Are you suffering because of your new life style? (I Peter 4:4) C. Am I suffering for Christ’s sake? (I Peter 4:13,2:21) 3. Hardship benefits us spiritually. (I Peter 4:14) “If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” A. God’s word tells us of many promises that come from our problems. *Hardship matures us. (James 1:2-4) *Hardship helps us to depend on God rather than self. (II Corinthians 1:9) *Hardship helps keep our pride in check. (II Cor. 12:7) *Hardship helps us to comfort others. (II Cor. 1:3-4) *Hardship can advance the gospel. (Philippians 1:12) 4. Commit yourself to your Savior. (I Peter 4:19) “So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” A. Do not be ashamed. (I Peter 4:16) B. Rejoice. Do not suppress your joy. (I Peter 4:13) & (I Peter 1:9) C. Commit your self to God. (I Peter 4:19) D. Continue to do good. (I Peter 4:19) & (1 Peter 2:12)