1 Peter 1:1-12 His Hand On The Thermostat

Peter was writing to scattered Christians.  Likely, they weren’t where they’d planned to be.  Yet he reminds them that they were right in the middle of God’s will for their lives.  God’s power was protecting them, even in the midst of bad things happening to them.

 

He told them that though these troubles might bring sadness, they were being used by God to prove to them that their faith was real and would bring them and God glory and honor some day.

 

In the midst of this sadness, they could still be filled with joy because they loved Christ and believed in Him and trusted Him despite their circumstances.  He was their living hope and is our living hope as well.

 

God is preparing US for what He has in store for us.  Our trials are some of God’s tools and textbooks, my commentary explained.  “Sometimes trials discipline us when we have disobeyed God’s will.  At other times, trials prepare us for spiritual growth, or even help us to prevent us from sinning.  We do not always know the need being met, but we can trust God to know and do what’s best.”

 

I really liked this:  “Trials are controlled by God … When God permits His children to go through the furnace, He keeps His eye on the clock and His hand on the thermostat.  If we rebel, He may have to reset the clock, but if we submit, He will not permit us to suffer one minute too long.  The important thing is that we learn the lesson He wants to teach us and that we bring glory to Him alone.”

 

Father, I’ve been feeling the trials, but I trust You.  Produce in my soul what I need, to know You better and to bring You glory.  Continue to give me hope, Father.

 

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford