Our Scripture reading today is 1 Peter 4:12-16.
Verse 12, "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:"
The very first word of this verse shows us inside the heart of the Apostle Peter. He is empathizing with them in their time of trouble. There is an heart-felt concern for the difficulties they were enduring. "True Christians never look more amiable one to another than in their adversities." The Apostle Paul encouraged the Thessalonian believers with these words, "And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels," 2 Thessalonians 1:7
God allows trials to come into our lives not for our destruction or harm. They are opportunities to prove we believe what we say we believe. They are opportunities to bring our heavenly Father more glory. Fiery trials give us more of a platform to speak of the goodness and grace of our God. They prepare to be a better ambassador for Jesus Christ. God knows exactly what each of us can handle. We are safely in His loving hands.