1 Peter 4:12 "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you". ~ Peter uses this word as a descriptive title, reminding the recipients of this letter, who were going through much suffering because of persecution, that they were loved in the heart of God. What a beautiful comforting thought; Being reminded of God’s love for us in the midst of trials. To know that we are His children and He takes care of us. As Peter calls them beloved, he then tells them not to be surprised or think it strange that they are going through a fiery trial.
Peter says “...concerning the fiery trial which is to try you.” "Fiery" literally means a burning, the word used here refers to a smelting furnace where gold and silver are purified. What a perfect description of what going through fiery trials does to us. It is a purifying experience. Picture this; refining gold from the ore involves a process in which the ore is “tried” or melted in order to separate pure gold from the other elements. It is a very complex process where all the impurities are removed. Peter tells us here that it is a fiery trial that is to try you. So seeing what the true meaning of the word here is, it helps us see that it is a refining process rather than divine judgment. It is going to strengthen our faith as we lean on Jesus Christ.
Peter creates no illusions for Christians under his care. God's plan for your life often, but not always, includes pain and hardship. When trouble comes we are not to be surprised, he writes, it's normal. As we suffer for Christ’s sake, our lives will be refined and our faith strengthened.
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