1 Peter 1:6-8 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
A common thread woven throughout the letters to churches in the New Testament is to rejoice in trials. It goes against every fiber of our fleshly desire. Our instincts are to cry foul, pout, hide in shame or run in fear. Because we have the Holy Spirit within us, we should be willing to endure the stitches to the fabric that makes up our lives. The trials and hardships the people of this time were enduring persecution for believing in Christ. Most of us can’t imagine that, thank You LORD. However, it doesn’t lessen the pain or stress of the hardships we suffer. God doesn’t use a measuring stick to assess who suffers more and count them most worthy. What He does measure is how we react in trials. When we endure trials and hardships in expectant thanksgiving and joy for His provision and outcome, the painful stitches of life create a beautiful garment for our presentation to the LORD, while presenting His faithfulness to those who do not know Him.
Father, I submit fully to Your will in my trials I want to learn what You want me to know and see Your glory revealed. Empower Your Spirit to direct me and prick my heart to rejoice and dispel doubt and fear. I love You! Amen
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