Session 4

Finding Your Happily Ever After

From 1 Peter: A 20-Day Devotional

There’s something inspiring about a good conflict. Your favorite movie, book and television show all have one thing in common: There’s a really great conflict and an even better resolution.

Think about your favorite movie. Think about what made it so great. We love a happily-ever-after ending, but what makes those endings great? Conflict. Resolution can’t be a reality without conflict.

Peter knew that when we identify with Jesus, conflict will follow. We may not have people trying to kill us, but we do know what it’s like to risk our reputations. Maybe you’ve had to say no to a relationship, friendship or social scene and faced ridicule or embarrassment as a result of that decision.

The weight of others’ words, the pain or frustration of severed relationships, the fear in waiting —  all of that pales in comparison to the promise we have in Jesus. The suffering we are facing today is light and momentary compared to the glory that will be revealed to us. When we share in proclaiming the Gospel and when we claim to belong to Jesus, it won’t be easy. But there’s a joy and gladness that is to come!

God has immeasurably more for us on the other side of persecution. He wants something greater than what we could imagine, and that’s what we find in following Jesus. The conflict is persecution; the resolution is the joy we find in our salvation, and the rest is a really good story.

Reflect:

• What conflict are you facing today?
• What’s one verse or Bible passage that reminds you of the good things Jesus wants to do in your life? Memorize that verse, and bring it to mind in those moments when following Jesus isn’t easy.  
• What are three things you can find joy in today?