In the face of suffering and pain, we wonder where God is or whether we have offended him so that he punishes us. Peter corrects such thoughts. Jesus’ suffering normalized suffering for all Christians. Further, enduring suffering shows that the Holy Spirit is giving the needed strength, and that awareness is so comforting during suffering. That the Western world has known so little suffering for the Christian on account of his faith is, historically speaking, an anomaly. We may prefer to think that being publicly accepted is normal for the Christian, but Jesus’ experience shows it’s not, and his experience is in fact the norm for those who follow him.
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.