It does not surprise me that the two times the phrase “Do Not Be Surprised…” is used in the Bible it is speaking of SUFFERING.

I Peter 4:12 – “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.”

I John 3:13 – “Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.”

Why ARE we surprised when hatred is hurled our way?

Why are we surprised when we face trials? When we are mocked or ridiculed?

Because the human condition is built that way.

And this is why we need God’s GRACE, His HEALING, and His perfect LOVE.

The gap between the world’s HATE and God’s LOVE is filled by JESUS.

Read that again…