Thursday, April 21, 2011

Why Do We Have Trials?


There are two major errors we can make regarding trials: The first mistake is the failure to anticipate trials. Jesus suffered trials. Jesus promised us trials (John 16:33). All the apostles suffered trials. Trials are an expected part of the Christian life. And, like all storms, preparation can be critical in successfully enduring them.

A second mistake is to harbor a morbid fear of trials. Remember 1 Corinthians 10:13: "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."

The Apostle Paul certainly knew sufferings (2 Corinthians 4:7-11, 16-18; 2 Corinthians 11:23-28; Hebrews 11:32-40). And he regarded them as opportunities. There are many reasons why we face trials.

Here are just a few:

  • To glorify God (Daniel 3:16 -18, 24-25)
  • Discipline for known sin (Hebrews 12:5-11; James 4:17 ; Romans 14:23 ; 1 John 1:9)
  • To prevent us from falling into sin (1 Peter 4:1-2)
  • To keep us from pride. Paul was kept from pride by his "thorn in the flesh" (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
  • To build faith (1 Peter 1:6-7)
  • To cause growth (Romans 5:3-5)
  • To teach obedience and discipline (Acts 9:15-16; Philippians 4:11-13)
  • To equip us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
  • To prove the reality of Christ in us (2 Corinthians 4:7-11)
  • For testimony to the angels (Job 1:8; Ephesians 3:8-11; 1 Peter 1:12 )

3 comments:

  1. I've learned many of these over the years. I wish I'd have learned them when I was much younger. Grin.

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  2. I have a true testimony of this. I pray more faithfully and try hard to keep the commandments when it looks like things are at their worst. I strive and fail to be as close to God in better times.

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  3. I have learned not to harbor fear of trials. Harboring fear happens when we don't have enough faith in the Lord's all-sustaining power. He has promised strength to all who trust Him.

    What a fabulous scripture chain.

    And Happy Easter. :)

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