1 Peter 1:6-9

The two themes of this week’s passage are rejoicing and trials. Pastor Dave could have titled his message “Rejoicing Amidst Grievous Trials.”

We understand about trials; we’ve all experienced them. Peter says that God’s purpose in a trial is to demonstrate to us the genuineness of our faith, a faith that turns to God, not away from Him in bitterness. Whatever trial you’re in right now, take it to your heavenly Father. Ask Him to confirm in your heart that you are truly His and that He is with you in the trial. Ask Him to teach you the lessons He wants you to learn from it. Ask Him to strengthen you to endure to the end.

The kind of rejoicing Peter speaks of is more of a mystery to us. Dave described it as deep, humble, meaningful rejoicing in your spirit. Joy like that is impossible to adequately express to another human being – especially to an unbeliever, but even to a fellow believer. Words fail. But I think God understands and receives our rejoicing even though we can’t express it. He is the source of joy; we are reflecting it back to Him. Take time today to sit, still and quiet, in God’s presence and experience the exultant joy of a soul saved.

Most small groups, as well as the WOW women’s Bible study, are starting this week. Our mid-week youth groups also kick off this week. Ask the Lord to use these groups to train all of us, young and old, to live as exiles in an increasingly hostile culture. Not fitting in is hard for adults and harder still for teenagers. Pray that God will use the encouragement and accountability of these groups to build conviction and courage in us all.

In Christ,
Carol Gilbert

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