Trials Along Life's Journey

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (I Peter 4:12-13)

 Peter wrote his letter to Christians, many of whom were suffering through extreme ordeals. Some were engaged in desperate circumstances. Some were driven from their homes, and many were struggling just to survive, so Peter gave them hope. He encouraged them to look beyond their present condition and to rejoice even in the midst of their troubles. 

Our troublesome situations today might not be the same as those first century believers, but the truth is, sooner or later we will all face troubles and trials along life’s journey. Here are some principles to remember:.

  1. Trials are common things. James 1:2 teaches us, it is when, not if, we encounter various trials. If you have no troubles right now, you are the exception, not the rule. If you are experiencing difficult circumstances, consider this fact; more are on the way. Doesn’t that make your day? Everybody is dealing with something, even the best Christians you know.
  2. Trials come in various packages. They may be physical, financial, emotional, relational, or spiritual. They may suddenly land at the door of your home, your business, your church.  They may be brief or prolonged. They may be self-inflicted or not related to anything you’ve done or not done. Sometimes they just hit you seemingly for no apparent reason.
  3. Trials test your faith; they stretch your faith. They can make you bitter or better, so trust God and hang on.
  4. Without trials, we would never grow into mature, battle-tested believers. 

Everything that comes into your life is Father-filtered. He makes no mistakes, so if you’re in the midst of a trial of some kind today, remember what Peter said and keep pressing on. 

The Pastor’s Pocket

Pastor Bruce Freeman


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