Suffering is something we experience in varying degrees and at different times in our lives. It also occurs for different reasons. In this passage we have a glimpse of followers of Jesus who were facing life threatening persecution under the rule of the Roman Emperor, Nero. The apostle Peter writes to them for their comfort and encouragement.

He explains that God is worthy to be praised even in their severe trial. Among the things he says are the following three. Firstly, they are to remember God’s mercy to them in the gospel. Through Jesus dying on the cross, their status has changed. They are no longer under God’s judgement but, instead, His mercy.

Secondly, through the gospel they have a glorious future awaiting them in heaven. There is a picture of God surrounding and protecting them even in the midst of suffering. Thirdly, God is using suffering for their good. This is because the trial they are about to go through is for the refining of their faith … the goal of their suffering is their salvation. Who else, other than Christians, can say that there is any good in suffering?