Enduring the Fiery Trials of the Christian Life

I remember taking my baby’s chunky little hands and gently placing them on my coffee mug so they could feel the heat. I would say, “Ouch! Hot!” over and over so they would understand the dangers of heat. I also remember making them giggle as I made a dramatic show of pretending to touch the stovetop and getting hurt. We avoid getting burned at all costs. It’s dangerous. It’s painful. Its consequences are severe.

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice as you share Christ’s sufferings…” 1 Peter 4:12-13 (ESV)

Following Jesus often means stepping into the unknown, stepping into potential harm, and surely stepping into opposition. We know we will experience hardship and persecution in this life (2 Tim 3:12), but why is this such a good thing that it would lead us to rejoice?

Have you ever gone through something painful or hard with a new friend, an acquaintance, or even a stranger, and in the end, a deep connection has been formed?

Human connection forms during hard things… when a mutual friend suddenly passes away, the new boss at work is a tyrant, or a child at the park is lost. Fear, sadness, grief, anger; passionate emotions create currents of deep connection.

If we can experience this with mere humans, can you imagine the gloriousness of the connection with our Almighty God? Remember, Jesus didn’t just experience brutal physical pain; He endured rejection from friends, ridicule from peers, public humiliation, and loss of family connections. Going through the fires of life with Him, and identifying with Him in His human suffering brings us to a deeper connection with His heart than any sunshiny day ever could. And what is worthy of rejoicing in more than becoming closer to our Lord?

His glory is revealed in our lives when we willingly walk the steps He has ordained for us. The safe, soft cobblestone path through the meadow… and the jagged, slippery path through the darkness. 

Father, I want to be refined through fire. Bring me closer to You, no matter where that takes me. You are worthy of it all. Amen.

Meet the Author
Hannah Carpenter

Hannah is a follower of Jesus, a mom to five, and a wife of 20 years. As a creative, she is passionate about bringing writing, painting, and beauty to the Lord as a form of worship. A true Wisconsinite, Hannah’s favorite place to be is on the lake with a good book, some snacks, and her family.