Endure Many Trials, 1 Pt 1:6

Text
“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while” (1 Peter 1:6, NLT).

Insight
“Trials Included” should be on the label when you buy into the Christian life. I don’t know why trials catch us by surprise… as though we have some right to live a “trial-free” lifestyle once we have believed in Jesus. He certainly went through many… and so might we.
Trials for the early church included the social, economic and political persecution they endured for choosing to follow Christ. Roman law under Emperor Nero required citizens to worship him as god. Believers were seen as traitors. Because Christians refused to worship at pagan temples, businesses at these moneymaking enterprises dropped when Christianity took hold in a town. And their lifestyles of holiness and self-sacrifice exposed the horrible immorality of the pagan culture.
Their choice to follow Christ separated them out of an evil culture. This separation brought accusations and persecution from the people, yet Peter writes, “God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right” (2:19). Peter reminds those who are being rejected: “You are a chosen people” (2:9). Contrary to how others may view them “You are a royal priest, a holy nation, God’s very own possession.” In fact, you are set aside, not for rejection, but so “you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1:9).
It must have been difficult to choose to follow Christ daily knowing the potential trials ahead. So, Peter encourages them saying, “The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls” (1:8 – 9).

Prayer
Father, I understand that in this life I will experience many trials. I will go through difficult times. I thank you that in the midst of these times, I am chosen by You. I will please You by doing what is right and reflecting Your goodness by my lifestyle. In Jesus name, AMEN.