1 Peter 1:1-12
Be Still: Almighty God, still my restless heart, quiet my busy mind and draw me into the silence where you dwell. In the hush of this moment, prepare me to meet with you. May my thoughts be captive to Christ and my words rise from a place of reverence and love.
Read: 1 Peter 1:1-12
‘These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So, when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honour on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. ‘ (v7)
Encounter: If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably asked the question, “Why me, Lord?” It’s a natural response to have when pain, confusion and hardship press upon us. Suffering causes us to ask questions. But the scriptures never encourage us to downplay the reality of pain. It’s okay to acknowledge when things are difficult.
Nonetheless, I’ve found that it can sometimes be more help to change the question from ‘Why me, Lord?’ to ‘Why, Lord?’ The first question puts us at the centre whereas the second puts God in the centre. The first question can trap us in self-pity or bitterness. But the second question opens the possibility to divine perspective on our experience. When we ask ‘Why, Lord?’ we invite him into a conversation with us and into our pain.
Trials are tough and can, at times, seem utterly meaningless. But God in his infinite wisdom and power uses even the most difficult things to weave his plans and purposes into our lives. I remember one particularly painful season that I went through last year. It brought heartache and plenty of tears. But, as I look back, I can see how God was present to me in every moment. God was doing something in me throughout that time. He was shaping me even when I couldn’t see it. My faith wasn’t crushed, it was refined in the fire.
If you find yourself in a difficult season, it’s okay to be wounded or disappointed. If you feel able, ask ‘Why, Lord?’ instead of ‘Why me, Lord?’ Invite Him into your pain and ask Him for his perspective.
Apply: Take a moment to reflect on any trials you might be facing. Invite God into your pain and ask him to sustain and strengthen you today.
Devote: O Lord, amid my trials, help me not to fix my eyes on myself, but to look to You. Shift my perspective, Lord. Strengthen me today and keep me anchored in Your presence.