December 21st~Indestructible

Hebrews 13:1-25

1 Peter 1:1-2:3

We closed the book of Hebrews and opened the first letter of Peter. Peter wrote his letter to encourage believers who were suffering (1:6). In fact, it is quite fitting that Hebrews is placed next to Peter’s letter, as Hebrews closes by talking of faith and Peter opens by talking of faith. “These trials,” he wrote, “are only to test your faith, to show that it is strong and pure. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold; and your faith is far more precious to God than mere gold...” (1:7-9).

One of the wonderful things about our relationship with God is that through His grace, we can have joy in the midst of sorrow, triumph in the midst of trials. “Be glad! There is wonderful joy ahead, even though it is necessary for you to endure many trials for a while” (1:6). Though we may not feel like rejoicing in the midst of trials, we can be assured that they are not purposeless. Remember, James wrote, “Whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. When your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow” (1:2, 3).

Peter wrote something similar, “Trials are only meant to test your faith, to show that it is strong and pure” (1:7). He goes on to compare trials and faith to fire and gold. Gold is one of the most imperishable objects on earth; but, apply enough heat or pressure, it will dissolve. However, genuine faith is indestructible. We may undergo intense trials, but these do not dissolve our faith, rather they make our faith more durable.

When I think of faith and trials by fire, I flash back to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who literally experienced the heat. They were exposed to intense pressure and persecution for their beliefs, but they stood their ground and did not give into the pressure (Daniel 3).

Daily Reflection

Have you had to face any furnaces in your lifetime? What is the most difficult faith test you have had to endure?

What benefits did you experience as a result of this faith test? What good came from it?

What are some of the unnecessary or unhealthy things in life that fiery trials help to burn away?

Genuine faith is a gift of God (Eph. 2:9). When going through a trial, how can you tell that your faith is His or your own?

Don’t allow your fiery trials to pull you away from God; rather, allow them to draw you closer to Him. You have His indestructible Spirit within you, and He is building an indestructible faith!

BiAY.org | Day 355 — 10 Days to Go