It’s important that we understand how trials work and the response we should have. There’s a natural increase to sin in our trials simply because of the added pressure and the human desire to escape from the pain and suffering.
Preparation is critical to pass trials because Satan can use our trials to destroy our faith in God.
One of the most common reactions to a trial in sickness, political upheaval, or just bad events in our personal lives is how shocked or upset we become. We saw this during Covid. People who didn’t have a strong foundation in the Word of God had foolish reactions. Like buying up the supply of toilet paper, wearing 2 and 3 masks, or even fighting because someone else wasn’t wearing a mask. God told us plainly that major changes will happen in life both good and bad.
When we encounter tough times, we often ask “Why?” We search for answers. But we should see the bad things as avenues for good things. In bad times there are always blessings. Romans 8:28 tells us “we know all things work together for good to them that love God, for those who are called according to His purpose.” God uses the trials we face to develop our character. By responding to trials by asking God “What do you want me to learn through this trial,” instead of asking why this is happening we can respond with grace, and experience the power of God, tranforminhour lives through love, joy, and peace.
I like what Peter says in 1 Peter 4:12-13, “Beloved, don’t be astonished at the fiery trial which has come upon you, to test you, as though a strange thing happened to you. But because we are paretakers of Messiah’s sufferings, rejoice that at the revelation of His glory you also may rejoice with exceeding joy.”
Our response makes all the difference. Tests are opportunities to grow spiritually, instead of despairing whenever we encounter trials. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 22:9 he would glory in his infirmities so that the power of Christ Jesus would rest on him. By choosing to trust God and accept the grace He has given us, Jesus’s character will be formed in us.
Unless we accept God’s grace to deal with suffering, inevitably we will become bitter. However, if we choose to trust God to bring about His purposes through our suffering we can avoid the trap of bitterness and grow in the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 5:7, Ephesians 4:31, Hebrews 13:14-15, 2 Peter 3:28).
We can be confident that God will not allow anything to happen to us without His permission, and will not let any bad thing happen that will not ultimately be turned into good. We can take advantage of bad situations to mature spiritually.
From Pity to Praise 