Scripture to Read: 1 Peter 1:6-7
Today we read what our reaction should be due to all God has given us through our Lord Jesus Christ. Here is what we read in 1 Peter 1:6-7, In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. We are to greatly rejoice in all God has done for us, even as we walk through the tests and trials of this life. As God led Peter to pen His Word, the Christians in Peter’s day faced incredibly horrible persecution from Nero, the emperor of Rome. Though we may not currently face persecution, we still walk through tests and trials. So, God wants us to rejoice in our salvation and our inheritance in Christ. The reason for rejoicing is because we know that the tests and trials strengthen our faith in our Lord. Our faith is more precious than gold because God is the one who gave us the faith we need to trust Him (Romans 12:3). As we walk in our faith in (clinging to, trusting in, relying on) Christ through the tests and trials we face, then our lives bring praise, glory, and honor to our Lord. Our Lord Jesus Christ will be fully revealed one day, and all believers will be revealed with Him, so all will know that we belong to Him.
Challenge & Application
1. What are we to rejoice in and why are we to rejoice?
2. How have you seen God use the tests and trials you have faced to strengthen your faith in Him?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!