In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 1:6-7, ESV)
If necessary, you may be grieved by various trials? I am not sure I like that. I would rather be comfortable and content. Grieved by trials is not what I want in my plans.
But Peter says that it may be necessary. We may not always know the answer. But that does not mean there is no purpose in the struggle. I may not like it. I may not want it. But God will use it for his good purposes.
In this case, Peter says the various trials may be for the testing of the genuineness of our faith. It is easy to trust God when the sun is shining down. It becomes more difficult to trust him through the storm. But it is in the storm that our faith becomes more real. It is shown to be genuine. It is not something that can be faked in the trial. Who we are and what we believe becomes more clear.
Also important to remember in all this is that Peter says for “a little while.” He brings to mind just how short our time on earth is compared to eternity with our Lord. Another 10, 30, 50, or 70 years may seem like a long time, but in the grand scheme of things, it is a short time. Our trials may be difficult, but they are temporary.
In the end, recognize that God cares more about your eternal security than he does your temporary comfort. That is our Advent hope. It may be tough, but the things of this world will pass away, and Jesus will remain. He will be glorified through both the good and the bad.
Come, Lord Jesus!
Reflection
- How does it comfort you to know that trials are temporary?
- Have you ever experienced a trial you later found to be necessary?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for your help in times of trial. Give me faith and hope to endure. Remind me that my trials are temporary and that they are not without purpose. Amen.
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