Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Earthly Security

1 Pet. 4:12 – ‘Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.’

When I was in grade school, I learned the hard way the fact that regardless who my parents are, I couldn’t get away from the punishment my teacher had in store for me when I made some mistakes – such as not doing homework and got into fight with other students. There are some things that my parents will do and try to protect me, but there are things that they just ‘let go’ – letting me experience the ‘sweet bitter’ taste of life. And believe it or not, I found the same principle when I became a Christian.

Some Christians think that if they have God on their side, then no harms could be done on them or any of their loved ones. God for sure wouldn’t intentionally and purposely harm us, but there are certain things that God allows to happen and as the result, it may hurt us in one way or another. Peter reminded his reader of this truth because they seemed to be caught off guard when ‘fiery trials’ come their way. And he added that this is in fact a test from God – a test of faith as His faithful followers.

God tests us to pass, never to fail. He tests us so that we can be even more vigilant and strong, not to cut us loose. Let’s exercise our trust in God as we follow Him to the fullest extent. And let’s remember that faith will cost us something – our earthly security.