“Various trials” grieved early Christians (1 Peter 1:6). Because of this, words of encouragement were offered:
(T)hat 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, whom having not seen, you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:7- 9)
There are times in history when collectively Christians suffered persecution and were tested. At other times the fire may be more of a personal nature. In either case, the faithful servant of God is reminded that devotion to the Savior is never, ever a guarantee of an easy ride. The Gospel of Christ is most decidedly not the health and wealth Gospel of the charlatan preachers often popular on television.
Collectively, the church at Smyrna was warned, “Do not fear any of those things you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). There, apocalyptic language highlights that trials would be coming. The people would not be spared, but the living and powerful word of Christ (Hebrews 4:12) was given to exhort them to faithfulness.
On the other end of the spectrum is the poetic, joyful recollection of some who had been through the refining fire and had come out to a joyous place: “For You, O God, have tested us; You have refined us as silver is refined. You brought us into the net; You laid affliction on our backs. You have caused men to ride over our heads; We went through fire and through water; But You brought us out to rich fulfillment” (Psalm 66:10-12).
Indeed, “God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able…” (1 Corinthians 10:13). He “is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy” (Jude 24).
Today, Christians somewhere are suffering. Likely, readers of this article are among them. The trial may be very personal—an illness or a tragedy tests one’s stability and stamina of faith. The test may be collective—a community may be threatened with everything from legal action to violence for their stand upon the principles of Christ. It is not easy. It is not to be minimized. While Christians want to avoid temptation and can even pray to not be led into such situations (Matthew 6:13), when found in turmoil, there is hope in the power of God as promised by His powerful Word.
“He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver,” said the prophet (Malachi 3:3). There is hope, and that hope is actually produced by the character traits that grow out of tribulation: “…knowing that tribulation produces perseverance, and perseverance character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Romans 5:3-5).
