Rejoicing in Trials
In 1 Peter 4:12, Peter tells us “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.” Yet, what is the first thing we do when a trial hits? We think it strange. “Why is this happening?” we wonder. There is truth to the statement that our “trials come to only make us strong.” God has a plan and yet, so often, our initial reaction is to react and not in a positive way.
“But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, you may be glad also with exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:13). Do you ever hear anyone rejoicing that they are suffering? I confess I do not find myself doing that either but this is a command. “If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf” (1 Peter 4:14). Sometimes trials come due to a bad decision we’ve made or something in our life that God is trying to take control of. However, when our trials come from no fault of our own, we need to look up and thank God that He is with us. We do not have to walk through these dark times alone.
There is nothing sweeter than feeling the presence of God when going through a dark time and knowing that, even if everyone else has left, He is still there. The one who has promised to never leave nor forsake us has kept that promise and that truly is something to rejoice about!
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