1 Peter 1:7 – that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,

One of the many beneficial purposes of afflictions for the child of God is to test the genuineness of his faith. Peter contrasts faith with gold. Of all the substances known to man, gold is one of the most imperishable. It can be subjected to intense heat and might seem to be indestructible. But the truth is that gold perishes through use, pressure, and fire. True faith is indestructible. The believer may undergo severe tests and trials, but instead of destroying his faith, they become food for faith to feed on. Job probably sustained heavier losses in one day than any other man in the history of the world, yet he was able to say, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.” The three men in the Babylonian furnace were literally tested by fire. The fire proved their faith to be real. Also it burned away the ropes that held them, setting them free. And during their flaming ordeal, they had the companionship of One “like the Son of God.” The genuineness of faith can be proved only by fire. When prevailing conditions are favorable, it might be easy to be a Christian. But when public confession of Christ brings persecution and suffering, then the casual followers drift away and are lost in the crowd. A religion which costs nothing is worth nothing. Genuine faith will result in praise, honor, and glory when Jesus Christ is revealed. This simply means that God will reward every instance of faith that stood the test. He will praise those who are joyful though surrounded by trouble. He will award honor and glory to tried and suffering believers who were able to accept their tribulations as a vote of confidence from Him.

Challenge:

You never have to pray for trials in this life. Trials are guaranteed to come sooner or later. You don’t have to be a Christian for very long to be confronted with some sort of difficult situation that will require you to exercise your faith in the Lord. Every single time that your faith overcomes the temptation to compromise, you will bring glory and honor to God. Rest assured that the Lord never neglects to take notice when you choose to be faithful during hard times. Your challenge for this week is to let your faith be stronger than your fear. Do not allow yourself to be led by your feelings, but rather, be led by what you know to be true. For example, God said “He would never leave you nor abandon you.” God said “He has great plans for you” and whatever circumstances you find yourself in He will see you through to the end. Focus on the positive this week and hold all of your negative thoughts captive to the authority of Jesus Christ. Do not allow yourself to get discouraged. Place your trust in the One who can change what you are going through right now. May God’s blessings be with you always.