Rev. 3:10-11, words to the church at Philadelphia: because you have kept my words of perseverance, I will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to those who dwell upon the earth. I am coming quickly, hold fast what you have, so that no one can take your crown.
Is trauma terminal? Sometimes it feels that way. 1 Pet. 4:12-14; 5:6-11.
Think it not strange, 1 Pet. 4:12-13. Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing is happening. But to the degree you share in the sufferings of Christ keep on rejoicing so that at the revelation of his glory you may rejoice with exultation.
What is Peter telling us? He is telling us to live out our faith in a very hostile environment. He is admonishing us to imitate Christ in every area of our life.
Acts 16 and19 -when you stand in the way of money, you are in trouble. This is an example of gaslighting, avoiding what the real problem is by focusing on something else.
Back to Peter. When there are trials in our life, how does this reflect God’s love for His people? 1 Pet. 1:7 – the trial of our faith being much more precious than gold which is perishable even though tested by fire may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. It is a purification process.
1Pet. 3:10-18. Who is there to harm you if you stay zealous in what is good? Even if you suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Sanctify Christ as Lord in your heart.
In no way do our troubles indicate that God is not aware, that He is not in our life. Satan will urge us to give up.
5 takeaways:
1. God is not absent in the severest of life’s storms. Do we really think that life will not present us with challenges?
2. He is working and accomplishing more than we could ever dream. Acts 16 – Paul and Silas had no idea an earthquake was coming. They were just living their faith.
3. Focus more on the results than the pain and challenges. That is not easy to do.
4. The trinkets of this world are greatly overrated. All throughout the NT we are warned about focusing on earthly things.
5. The bliss of heaven is exceedingly greater than an extended life here. We cannot even imagine how wonderful it will be there. It will be far above anything we think or imagine it will be. Let us be sure we are doing all we can to make it there.
Psalm 16:11 – you make known to me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy. At your right hand are pleasures forever.
That has to be our focus when we are in the midst of trials.
You will show me the way of life, granting me joy of your presence and the pleasure of living with you forever, Psalm 16
Sermon by Tony Mauck
