Not Strange

February 20, 2026

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:" 1 Peter 4:12

Many times, when we go through trials and tribulations, we feel like God has abandoned us or we think we have done something wrong that we are going through some challenges. We take the time and try to figure out what it is we have done, and how we can get quickly out of it so things in life will return to normal. There are times when we can find the answer to what we have done, and other times we chalk it up to the journey of life we are on. The Scripture reminds us not to think it is strange when we go through the fiery trials of life, like something strange is happening to us. I encourage you today not to think it strange when you go through tough times in life but just remember whatever it is you go through God is right by your side. Just because you are saved does not mean you are exempt from going through the trials of life. Just because you serve God does not mean things will not come against you. It may even seem just when you get your life back on track, is when the wheels of life begin to fall off. Do not think it strange, but remember just as Christ when through for you, there are some things you have to go through as well. Do not think it strange when life gets rough and tough but continue to put your faith in God and let Him work it out for you. When trials come it does not necessarily mean you are on the wrong track, it could mean you are on the right track. I thank God for everything in my life, even the trials, because I know they come to make me stronger. This is why I know for sure, "It's My Year To Get My Thing From My God!"

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for another day that you’ve given me and God sometimes it does get rough and the challenges are seemingly too much to handle. But Lord, I know that you will never put more on me than I can bear and some things come just to make me stronger. Thank you, Lord for walking with me in this journey of life. I love you Lord. In Jesus Name Amen.

Be Inspired, Rev. Dr. Stephen W. Pogue, Pastor
Greater Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church
Mount Vernon, NY