Why we should rejoice in our trials. 1 Peter 1-4

1 Peter 1:1-9; 2:12, 15, 20-25; 3:11-16; 4:12-19

What is the purpose of life here on earth? Well, it is to be tested to prove to our Heavenly Father that we are willing to keep His commandments, to do His will and stand by Him so that ultimately we can live with Him again. We want to grow closer to our Heavenly Father here on this earth so that we will be worthy to dwell with Him after this time of probation. So, becuase we need to prove ourselves and we need to grow....the Lord places things in our lives that we may do just that. These things that I am talking about are trials, temptations, and being ridiculed for the Lord's sake.

The saying "refiners fire" is a very real thing. In order to purify silver, it is placed over extreme heat so that it melts and the impurities are burned away. The silversmith or the Creator knows when the silver is purified when He can see His reflection in the silver. If we want to build our muscles and grow stronger, our muscles need to be worked and exercised, we need to lift weights. The muscles tear and then they rebuild and when they rebuild they are stronger. I like what it says in 1 Peter 2:20, it basically cuases us to think why do we dismiss people making fun of us when we make mistakes, but then we are embarrassed when people make fun of us for doing the right thing. If people are ridiculing you for doing the right thing, they will learn their lesson in time and you will be blessed for choosing the right.

So, when the Lord places trials, temptations, and mockers in our lives we need to remember...The Lord wants us to grow closer to Him. I should be happy and put my trust in Him! I should rejoice and be enveloped in the Lord's love and concern for me! I should be happy that I am following in the footsteps of our Savior, Jesus Christ.