That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” 1 Peter 1:7.

No one desires to experience or endure constant or excruciating pain, but the Apostle Peter contends that our faith is tested by fire. There are only two reasons a metallurgist applies fire to metals: one is to test them, and the other is to cleanse them for analysis or perfection.

God is the master metallurgist of our souls. He knows exactly what it takes to perfect, mature, and refine us to be presented faultless before Him at the appearing of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” 1 Peter 1:7.

The trials and tribulations that we encounter may seem more than we can bear at times. However,  these experiences have a far more lasting effect on our faith, character and relationship with God. That is why the Apostle Peter wrote that the trial of our faith is much more precious than gold that will one day perish.

Though undesirable and hurtful, these things come to strengthen us, removing unbelief and making our faith stronger and more valuable – resulting in our lives bringing praise, honour, and glory to God. The Apostle Paul also wrote these comforting words: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;” 2 Corinthians 4:17. 

My friends, there truly is purpose in our pain. The trials and temptations we endure have a divine purpose for something far greater than we can imagine or our mere eyes can see. Romans 8:28 states, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.” 

As born-again believers, we know that not everything we encounter is a feel-good experience.  But still we trust by faith that through every dark and stormy cloud, amidst heartache, pain and grief, God’s grace and mercy will sustain us forever!

Though we may not always understand, and there are many times that we must tearfully cry out, “Lord, why so much pain?”  Thankfully, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel; and we can stand on the faithful promises of God! “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10.

May God’s blessings and amazing grace be with us all.