The more we read in the Bible, we notice many powerful characters in the Bible have been through some tremendous tribulations in their lives. For example, Joseph, Moses, Job, David, Daniel, Paul, etc. have been through some severe trials in their lives. We probably won’t be in awe of them, if not the hardships they went through. Peter says not to be surprised with fiery trials when testing you (1 Peter 4:12-13). Can we tell our trials have been ‘fiery’ trials as that of our Christian forefathers? Peter goes on to say rejoice that you are sharing Christ’s suffering. So, what should we do when we go through suffering? Should I be despondent and withdraw from the world? On the contrary, Rom 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Believe that God has a plan for you, and He is working on you for your good. In Romans 5:3-4, Apostle Paul writes, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” When you accept that the trials are God-sanctioned because He has a purpose for you, you learn to persevere, which builds your character and thus your hope.

Sometimes we trust in the blessings God has given us and gone astray, which is why He disciplines us just like our human fathers do as we read in Hebrews 12:7-11. Don’t you feel proud that your Heavenly Father loves you enough to discipline you? Let me remind you that when you are going through your challenges today –– “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). Our Lord is coming soon. Let us remain faithful in our trials as James says in his epistle, so that after enduring we will receive the crown of life promised by God to those who love Him (James 1:12).