Text:I Peter 4

Let us begin with a quick review of what we had previously covered in this chapter.  First, we are encouraged to arm ourselves like Christ.  Christ suffered and we will as well because this world is not our home. It is so easy to get caught up and distracted in this world but we are encouraged to live above this world.  We are to live out our time here on earth to the will of God and not man.  We are to be separate from this world, vs 3-6.  

We also spent some time looking at this idea that the end of all things are at hand.  Again, this means it is coming.  Could be soon or it could be still awhile but it is coming none the less.  May we also spend our days loving each other for the glory of the Father.  We are to speak Truth and remember that it is not ours but God’s.  Therefore, give it out freely in the same manner that we received it.  Free and full. For the eternal kingdom is the Lord’s and He has dominion and praise for ever.  

Today we pick up and we are once again reminded that fiery trials will come our way if we stand for the Lord boldly.  We are not to think it strange when these trials come our way or even dwell on them.  Fiery trials means burning trials but also the smelting process.  Job was mindful of this and when he was discussing with his so called friends, he told them that even when it appears that God may not be around, once the trying of God is over the faithful shall come forth as gold.  This is the same smelting idea.  When you and I are tried, let God have His way.  It may not be pleasant but we shall be purified and God shall be glorified.

When we face trials from this world for standing on truth, we are not alone, II Timothy 2:11-13.  Also, God’s glory rests on us, vs 13-16.  We shall receive gladness with exceeding joy.  The best part is that the Spirit, or breath, of glory and of God Himself will rest upon us.  This is the same Spirit that brought Christ victoriously out of the grave.  This is that dynamite Spirit that gives us great power to stand for Truth and for our God.  No matter what happens, may we, God’s people, be found standing in the face of fiery trials for the Glory of God the Father!