Walking in Hope

Peter has emphasized Walking in Hope throughout 1 Peter 1: 1-12. 

Through this study we see trials and persecution in a different light and see how our faith is strengthened. In 1 Peter 1:6, Peter made it clear to these suffering believers that even as they grieved in their present existence, it was only for a little while compared to the glorious eternity awaiting them. 

We see that through the fire of trials we are purified. 1 Peter 1:7 compares the genuineness of your faith with gold tested by fire. As gold is heated, impurities float to the top and can be skimmed off. Steel is tempered or strengthened by heating it in fire. Likewise, our trials, struggles, and persecutions refine and strengthen our faith. 

In the crucible of life, God our Goldsmith skims off our impurities. Through trials, God burns away our self-reliance and self-serving attitudes, so that our genuineness reflects his glory and brings praise to him.

My friend, the message of hope here is that this life is only temporary. Life is short here on earth and we will spend eternity with our Savior, so let’s make every moment of every day count for Him.