Today’s PBJ, a sobering reminder and promised victory! “Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. . . But it is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being called by his name!” (1 Peter 4:12, 16 NLT) “I do not trust in my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. You are the one who gives us victory over our enemies; you disgrace those who hate us.” (Psalm 44:6-7 NLT) Trials and persecution will come to those who choose to follow the Lord. The student is not greater than the teacher. Persecution comes to both! Continue to put your full trust in the Lord. His strength, his spirit, will enable you to persevere. He alone is your victory. Do not trust in your own strength but lean into his embrace. Receive his comfort and walk in his joy! Yes, my Lord. My trust can only be in you for I recognize that my strength will never be sufficient to endure the fiery trials, difficulties, and temptations to come. You alone are my rock, my shield, my shelter, the anchor of my soul, and in you I find strength, courage, and joy. In you I will win the day and walk in redemptive victory!