Why do we go through trials?

That question is answered in the first chapter of Peters Epistle.

See 1:6-9

1Pet 1:6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials,

1Pet 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,

1Pet 1:8  whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 

1Pet 1:9 receiving the end of your faith--the salvation of your souls.

First of all, while we rejoice in Christ Jesus, though now for a little while ( IF NEED BE ).....that's the first thing about trials, this is partly why the Lord allows them in our lives. It's if NEED BE. In other words, there is some need in our life that that the Lord is seeking to minister to. 

Secondly, we are told that the ( GENUINENESS OF OUR FAITH )  will come shining through. 

So, for these two reasons. One, we have a need, and the Lord is tending to that need, and secondly, that our faith being tested by fire will be found to praise, honor and glory. In other words, our faith will be developed and made stronger. 

These two truths can help us as we face trials, to see them from God's perspective, and then to embrace them, and patiently go through them, letting the Lord do His work in us and through us. 

In short, when God takes us through a trial ( which He does if we let Him, He is always faithful to get us through them ) we never come out the other side the same. We are changed, we are transformed, we are equipped to better serve Him and His people. 

Thank You Father for these truths. They are such an encouragement to us. They shed great light on our lives and ministries. We welcome Your work, and pray to trust You as we go through trials, and to just patiently wait on You to do Your work. In Jesus name. Amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier

Calvary Chapel Visalia

Application/Promise.

1. Trials only come when needed.

2. They are to refine our faith

3. Trials are fiery, but not destructive

4. Trials purify us.

5. Trials make our faith shine all the more.

6. Trials fit the plan of God for our lives. 

7. Hang in there, God will get you through. 

8. Be faithful to God. He is faithful to You.