“In this you greatly rejoice…though now for a little while, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ whom you love and have not seen but believe…”1 Peter 1:6-9“In this you greatly rejoice…though now for a little while, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ whom you love and have not seen but believe…”1 Peter 1:6-9
On the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, our Faith urges us toward Preparedness yet criticizes our agility of being ready IN the trial. Even during early biblical days, the “ole” prophets, Jews, Pharisees, Sadducees and even the disciples of Jesus, were looking for the return of a conquering Messiah and a Big Jewish kingdom, fame and fortune, yet missed the revelations of “The Church Age”. They were even unclear about the need of a cross. Had they forgotten they still needed to be forgiven for sin-sake; to occur only through the cross?
Today, have we lost humility and like the disciple have forgotten we need to thank God every day for forgiven sins place on His cross? God is preparing us for the life and service yet to come in heaven. This explains the trials in our lives: these are tools used in the Christian experience here on earth, even today. It does not necessarily mean that God causes trials, but the bible tells us He uses them for our good and His purpose-though we go through them with sufferings, we end up praising him for the “better” end (v. 7)
In 1 Peter, we find scripture to encourage us as we go through fiery trials. Christians should not be pretending when going through trials as if its all peaches and cream with smiles. Our Lord lets us go through the fire until we learn the purpose, look and resemble the beauty of Jesus (consider the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5) and reflect the Glory and Praise to God. Keep in mind our love for Christ is not based on our sight nor our emotions, so get over it, but on our Spiritual relationship with Him and what the Word has taught us. Satan wants to pull the worst out of us, to think the worst of ourselves and others. So, when you find yourself in some situation and trial(s), and you really hurt, immediately look up to Christ in true love and worship. This will take the poison out the situation and replaces it with healing medicine! We are born for glory, kept for glory and being prepared for glory!
Remember, Little faith will take your soul to heaven, but great faith will bring heaven to your soul, right here on earth! Keep reading the WORD of GOD. Be Blessed. Dr. Dowe
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