Today’s Reading | 1 Peter 1:1-12
Purpose for Trials
Why do trials come into the life of a believer? At times it almost seems as if the closer we move toward God, the more difficult the circumstances become in our lives. In today’s reading, Peter reveals one purpose God has for allowing trials to come into our lives. We should be encouraged and rejoice at the trials we face. In verse seven, we learn that sometimes trials come so that we can see that our faith is genuine. Trials help us know for certain that we are saved and give us greater confidence that we have a relationship with God. It takes our faith from theory to reality. It makes our faith something alive in us that affects the way we live. And what happens when our faith becomes real? According to verse seven, it results in praise and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. God uses trials to show us the reality of our faith. Is your faith real to you? Do you know for certain that you are on your way to heaven? It may be that the trials you are facing have been placed there by God to give you the opportunity to make your faith real. Trials are the means to a deeper, more personal relationship with Christ. Do you view trials this way?
Today’s Questions
Say What?
What trials are you facing right now?
So What?
How can you use today’s verses to help you face those trials and gain more authenticity in your walk with God?
Now What?
How can you use this passage to help someone you know who is going through trials?
Then What?
In light of this passage, what personal commtiment can you make?