Be Ready. Arm Yourself (1 Peter 4:1)

1 Peter 3:13-18. Being ready to give an account for the hope that is in you is in the context of suffering (yours). 3:16 Good conscience while being slandered results in your enemies being put to shame. Romans 8:17 The is no glorification without suffering. John 12:24 Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone, but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Jesus was speaking of Himself, but it also applies to you and me. A servant is not above his or her master (Matthew 10:24). Jesus suffered outside the camp. Hebrews 13:10-14 God with Him outside the camp. I think most Christians would give Jesus everthing except their respectability. Outside the camp signifies respectability is on the altar, too.

Get rid of baggage. Focus on the Everlasting City (Hebrews 11:13-16, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Romans 5:3-4 Allow suffering to build character. Deal with doubts. Think through your theological suppostions and their practical application thoroughly. Be sure you connect with the Person of Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 13:5 Don't take evil into consideration when making decisions; i.e. do God's will regardless of circumstances. When you believed in Jesus, you became part of a Body that includes persecuted Christians. Acept that persecution might come your way.

If you think the above is disjointed, it is. I had written them down, and have put them here straight from two pages of notes. Many of these ideas come from Triumphant Church, compiled by The Voice of the Martyrs.