Looking Forward to the End

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 1:6-7

How would you respond to an article or feature entitled “Three Reasons Why You Can Stand Anything That Comes Your Way”? To me it sounds like a bestseller! That’s the kind of information I want to grab. Well, my friend, Peter has a powerful–and hopeful!–message for us as we suffer for doing what’s right. He gives us three reasons why we can withstand anything that comes our way.

Reason 1:We can stand anything because of what we are looking forward to—our magnificent inheritance of life with God.

Reason 2:We can stand anything if we remember that every trial is a test… and trials make our faith stronger and more resilient.

Reason 3:We can stand anything because at the end of our lives, when we’re with Jesus Christ, we will receive our rewards from Him—His praise and glory and honor.

Regardless of past or current trials, remain joyous in the goodness of the Lord. It is in His strength that you can stand strong and persevere.

Lord, You know the affliction I’m currently experiencing. My circumstances grieve me, but I’m holding on to the knowledge of Your provision. I purpose to press on and do the right thing in Your name, to praise You each day. And when I’ve made it through this trial, I will give You even more praise and glory. Thank You for loving me. Amen.

Read Looking Forward to the End on Elizabeth & Jim George.