Encouragement for Trials
Here’s an excellent memory verse — “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator” (1 Peter 4:19). This verse has a sort of strange comfort to me. God is allowing this suffering, therefore I should trust that He has my best at heart. I should continue to do good, or in some cases, just say nothing. When insults were hurled at Christ, He didn’t retaliate.

It is only by God’s grace we can stand in our trials. Something I do during a trial is to pray silently, “Help me not to react!” We are told to suffer not as a murderer or hater, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody. Our faithful Creator sees our trouble, He knows it, and He is with us. He will never leave us!

We can have peace in our suffering when we entrust ourselves to the One who judges justly. Trials will come. You can view them as taking part in Christ’s suffering. Consider yourself blessed. When you suffer for doing what is right, this is your opportunity to glorify God. Your attitude should be the same as Jesus Christ, so others can see Him through you.

When we are insulted, we are to not only keep our tongues from evil, but to do good to the one who hurt us. How do you think that makes God look? Amazing! “These Christians must have something,” they think. Boy, are they right!

Remember that the devil wants to destroy your faith. He is our enemy. Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm.

The truth is that God loves us and no weapon aimed at us can destroy us. When you put your confidence in God you will not be ashamed. He will lift you up! He is our peace. You are in the palm of God’s hand!

Your only defense is the Word of God. It’s your sword! Know it, love it, and hide it in your heart (memorize it).

Deliberately resist the devil’s schemes by filling your mind with heavenly thoughts. Cast all your cares on Him. Why? Because He cares for you. Express your faith in God’s plan.

When (yes, I said when!) trouble and trials come, instead of complaining, pray that God would strengthen you in this and be glorified. Say and think only things that will build your faith, not tear it down. Guard your speech. Give no place to the enemy.

We don’t need to know what God’s purpose is because we know He loves us….but we do know His purpose! His purpose is that we would be transformed into Christ-likeness. Isn’t that good? “...His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:” (2 Peter 1:3).

Peace to all who love our Lord Jesus with an undying love!