Monday, October 23, 2023

Alex Buabeng-Korsah

TOPIC: THE POWER OF TRIALS

THEME SCRIPTURE: “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:7)

 

PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:

Why do Christians go through trials?

One thing that we never get used to is writing an examination. It calls for a lot of preparation and hours of devotion. When the exam results are released, two things happen. Some people jubilate, and others bow their heads. Similarly, trials, unlike temptations, are like exams. It presents tough circumstances and situations to the believer such that his or her choices, sincerity, endurance, and love will be revealed.

Apostle Peter, the writer of this epistle to the saints scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, etc. (1 Peter 1:1), knows what it is like to face trials.

When Jesus was arrested, it was Peter who swore and denied Him. Trials may come in various forms and colours; God allows them into our lives. The Shepherd of our souls, even though He is not the one who brings us to the place of trial, does not hesitate to open the door of our lives to it due to its significance. In our theme scripture, Apostle Peter by the Spirit reveals to us two critical values we can get when our faith is tried.

Firstly, Peter asserts that when we suffer trials, our faith is proven to be genuine or not.

Those who do not have faith in Christ often get destroyed by trials. However, men and women whose trust and confidence in Christ are vital are strengthened in times of trial. By using the analogy of how gold is put to the fire to reveal its purity, separating the precious metal from all unwanted impurities, Apostle Peter by the Spirit points to us how we are refined from all dross of lukewarmness, uncommitment, spiritual laziness, and pride when we go through trials. In the end, we come forth as gold (Job 23:10).

Secondly, the Apostle indicates that when we are tried and tested in this life and remain unmovable in our faith in Christ, our genuineness will be found to praise, honour, and glorify Jesus Christ at His appearing. Thus, the suffering of this life is temporal. The ultimate is our hope that, at His appearing, all tears will cease, death will be annihilated, and He will be glorified in us as we are glorified in Him.

Beloved in Christ, are you going through trials at the moment? Be strong in the Lord.

Has your faith been put to the test? Look to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith (Heb 12:2). Even though the storms of life are beating vehemently against you on all sides, press on to the mark of the higher calling. Remain humble and obedient to the end. Then God will also highly exalt you and honour you as a good and faithful servant. Always remind yourself that all is well when you end well, and you are going to stand strong and true to the end. Then you can say that you have fought a good fight, you've kept the faith.  Remain blessed.

 

FURTHER READING – 1 Peter 1:1-7

Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so.

 

QUESTION TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:

1. How well have you come to appreciate trials as part of your Christian life?

 

CONFESSION

Eternal Father, when I am tried, I will come forth as gold. It is a reality that we have to fight the good fight of faith. I receive grace to remain patient during my seasons of trials. I set my eyes on you alone, my Lord and my King. Hallelujah!

 

1-Year Bible Reading Plan

2 Chronicles 18; 2 Chronicles 19; Daniel 1; John 19