“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you” (1 Peter 4:12).
As mentioned earlier in our introduction to the Biblical book of 1 Peter, this epistle repeatedly directs our attention to the proper way to handle the sufferings, difficulties, persecutions, and negative circumstances we encounter in life. For instance, consider this passage from 1 Peter 4:12 and its reference to fiery trials. Unlike the questionable ethics of a modern-day salesperson who promises one thing but delivers something else, the Biblical Scriptures are clear regarding the potential sacrifices and responsibilities involved in following Christ.
That brings us to an expression that people sometimes use when talking about spiritual topics: “God loves you and He has a wonderful plan for your life.” That statement is accurate, for God does love us and He certainly has a wonderful plan for our lives. But while we may be quick to focus on the good things that a statement like that implies, there is another aspect to consider.
For example, 1 Peter 4:12 compels us to acknowledge the possibility that God’s plan might involve hardships and challenges that are difficult to understand. This aspect of Christianity is frequently disregarded, unintentionally or otherwise. Thus, we should accept the fact that a commitment to follow Christ will undoubtedly lead to conflict with those who hold other priorities.
We should also note the role God plays in leading us into these “fiery ordeals” (Phillips). As the author of Hebrews tells us, “The Lord corrects the people he loves and disciplines those he calls his own” (Hebrews 12:6 CEV). Revelation 3:19 adds, “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline…” (NIV). We even have the example of Jesus Himself, for we are told that the Holy Spirit “…compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness” to be tempted by the devil in Mark 1:12 (NLT).
If we begin with an awareness that trials and difficulties are an inherent aspect of genuine Christianity, we will be better prepared to handle them when they occur. Paul the Apostle prepared the Thessalonian church in this regard by saying, “We didn’t want any of you to be discouraged by all these troubles. You knew we would have to suffer, because when we were with you, we told you this would happen. And we did suffer, as you well know” (1 Thessalonians 3:3-4 CEV).
Yet as Paul also encouraged the church at Corinth…
“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17).