ODJ: tested and trustworthy

January 25, 2016 

READ: 1 Peter 1:3-9 

These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold (v.7).

Recently, while I shopped for an appliance, a store salesman showed me two models. The less expensive one was a knockoff—a cheap imitation. The other had a sticker affixed attesting to its value and quality. Because it had been vigorously tested to stringent industry standards, I was assured of its safety and reliability.

All of us are tested too (1 Peter 4:12). In fact, the believers to whom Peter wrote were facing severe trials—their faith was attacked, morality criticized, and hope mocked (1:6, 2:12). The apostle explained the purpose of such testing: “These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold” (1 Peter 1:7). It’s true—a faith that isn’t tested is a faith that can’t be trusted.

God allows testing for our benefit, for the tests reveal the reality and authenticity, quality and purity, reliability and efficacy of our trust in God. These trials help us grow, making us spiritually strong and mature (James 1:2-4).

Though we may endure many trials in this life, we have reasons to “be truly glad” and “rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy” (1 Peter 1:6,8). We can press on as we experience God’s provision and protection. We’re also recipients of His great mercy—having been given a new life, “living hope” (v.3 niv), and “priceless inheritance.” What’s more, “God is protecting [us] by his power” (vv.4-5). He alone sustains and keeps us safe.

By God’s enabling, believers in Jesus can honor Him. As we suffer, we follow Jesus’ example and participate in His sufferings (1 Peter 2:21), while also sharing in His glory (1:7, Romans 8:17). And as we do, He grows in us a faith that’s truly tested and trustworthy.

—K.T. Sim

365-day-plan: Genesis 41:37-57