Peter is writing to those "pilgrims" who had migrated to Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. Today that would be the area of Turkey or Asia Minor as it was known in Peter's day. They no doubt we're going through some very challenging days in the early church.
. . . you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuiness 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 1:6-9)
Pastor Rick Warren (Saddleback Church in CA) writes that "We don’t get faith by sitting in a Bible study group or just talking about it. Faith is like a muscle; it develops by being used. The more you use your faith, the more it gets stretched. And the more it gets stretched, the more God is able to bless your life."
While no one invites trials or looks forward to tests in life, they are opportunities to glorify God. Rather than choose to grumble, mumble, and stumble, we can turn to our God who knows our needs and desires to show up in our lives for all to see. Though we do not "see" Christ today, He is seen and witnessed in how we the Church handle the things life throws at us. Trials are a real opportunity for us and those unbelieving around us, to really experience His love and His power.
While there are many remediies, cures, and programs to correct things in life, first turning to Jesus draws us closer to Him and increases our trust in Him. If it worked for the early Church it is alright by me!
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