1 Peter 1:7 – “That the trial 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 reality of the christain journey that is hardly spoken about is the testing of our faith. A part of every Christian’s journey that cannot be avoided.
James 1:2-4 says:
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
If there is one truth you have to embrace, it is this – our faith will be tested! No matter how difficult or hard it may be, our faith will be tested.
On this journey, there will be challenges, trials, and tribulations. Instances that would make us question the presence of God, but it is important we understand that these tests are not to punish us or to condemn us to difficult situations.
The testing of our faith is rather for our own benefit than our disadvantage. It is for this reason that James encouraged us to count it all joy.
Why? Because through the testing of our faith, we develop endurance, patience, a strengthening of our faith, and, most importantly, a higher level of dependence on God.
And in the end, all glory still returns to our Heavenly Father.
Even Jesus was tested multiple times—up to the point of death, but His stance remained firm in God. It was the will of the Father above all else.
“Not my will, Lord, but Yours be done.”
Even in the most difficult moment of His life, He submitted His will and took upon Himself the will of the Father.
With Jesus being an exemplary figure for us believers, we ought to embrace the trials and persecution that may come our way. Some are more intense than others, but as James has advised, we count it all joy.
For He who loses his life here gains it in heaven.
Prayer: Lord, give me the grace to persevere through the tribulations; the grace to be strengthened in my faith in you.
