‘In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 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; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls. ‘ 1 Peter 1:6-9 (NASB)
This is a tough one. I do not know a single person who hasn’t been tested at multiple points in their life. We all have our cross(es) to bear. There are many times in our lives when the weight of the burdens can be too much to bear and times when that weight very well might crush us. If… we let it. It is in these times, when the overwhelming weight of burden weighs so heavily that our faith will be tested or revealed. In my opinion, there is no greater witness, no greater testimony to the glory and supremacy, the infinite goodness and greatness of our Lord Jesus Christ, then how we conduct ourselves in these times. How we walk with and represent Jesus under seemingly insurmountable troubles reveals to those around us the power of a life abiding in Christ. Can you glory in His plan for you? Can you recognize and appreciate the work He is doing in and through you in those moments? Can others see that, as well? I’ve lived a very blessed life, an easy life by many’s perspective. I am grateful for that. I’ve caused pain, I’ve sinned. Boy, have I sinned, but God is merciful. Through the loving sacrifice of His Son at Calvary, He has redeemed me, and continues to do so daily. For that I am eternally grateful. I’ve been tested. Through, physical, emotional and spiritual trials, I’ve been tested. And yes, for that I am grateful. Though not always successfully or obediently, I have tried to represent and share with other’s just how I’ve witnessed Him working things to good through those times. I can recognize it most of the time. With maturity and increasing numbers of opportunities to experience Him in those difficult periods, I believe it becomes more natural, as well as evident to others. My prayer for myself and you, as well, is that when those moments come (and they will) our faith will be revealed to those around us, and they cannot help but think, “I don’t know what that is, but I know I need it too”! Have a blessed weekend.
In full pursuit of the greatest Trophy
