God allows us to sin and experience trials. We are tested, tempted, and adversity is a part of our human existence. It is up to us to go through all of this for Christ, and not for our own gain.
“14If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.” – 1 Peter 4:14-15 (ESV)
We will have a difficult time of it, however if in the name of Christ, we will be blessed.
“16Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” – 1 Peter 4:16-17 (ESV)
NIV Commentary: “It is not shameful to suffer for being a Christian. Don’t seek our suffering and don’t try to avoid it. God often allows believer to sin and then experience the consequences. He does this for several reasons; (1) to show us our potential for sinning, (2) to encourage us to turn from sin and more constantly depend on him, (3) to prepare us to face other, even stronger temptations in the future, and (4) to help us stay faithful and keep on trusting him…keep on doing right regardless of the suffering it might bring.”
When I look at the commentary and place it with the words from 1 Peter, I am reminded that the trials I go through are there to refine me and make me better. I am a sinner and admit that openly to anyone who will ask. God is constantly working on me through the trials he allows to come to me. It is through those trials and experiences that I am able to more aptly “turn from sin and more constantly depend of him”, and am able to prepare “to face other, even stronger temptations”.
Where are you in your time? Are you being prepared for future trials? Are you able to see the time as one of refinement?
Trevor's Thoughts 