Do Not Be Surprised

Last updated on: October 8, 2024 at 4:11 pm by Michele Howe

0 Comments

Do Not Be Surprised 2024-10-08T16:11:53-05:00 Michele Howe

LOGO Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

God will protect our faith

You are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. You rejoice in this, even though now for a short time, if necessary, you suffer grief in various trials so that the proven character of your faith – more valuable than gold which, though perishable, is refined by fire – may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 1:5-7

There are some things we might expect to impact us and our journey with Christ in this sinful and broken world. Others that are common and often throw us off track…not so much. As we study this passage from 1 Peter, we read how we are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In light of this wonderful truth, God asks us to stay resolved, to stand firm, and to even rejoice when we suffer. How so?

Trials strengthen our faith

Our suffering strengthens our faith. Our trials fortify us for what is to come. Our sorrows help to prove the character of our faith. And this faith, God tells us, is more valuable than gold. Amazing.

Still, there can be pitfalls along the way that can derail us. But God is greater than what happens to us. His Word tells us…warns us…to not be surprised when specific trials come our way. When we study the bible we can be prepared and ready for the Enemy’s attack.

We fight an unseen enemy of our faith

Here are some principles and ploys from the evil one that are meant to take us unawares and to weaken our faith.

When we decide to live for God, we will be mistreated by those who oppose God. It’s not an “if” but a when this will occur so we must be ready to respond with God’s grace and love toward those who will decidedly hate us (because of the message God brings).
When our enemies decide to band together against you, it often comes as a surprise that this surprise attack comes from other so-called believers. This, of course, is the most painful kind of attack when it stems from those close to us.
When Satan uses what is inside our hearts to come against us. In other words, it feels like an inside job because it is for these three things God tells us tempt us to sin. The world, the flesh, and the Devil.
Finally, do not be surprised when God uses all these hard things that come against us…for our ultimate good and His glory. Our faith is tested and is strengthened and the bottom line truth is this: without opposition the strength of the Gospel is NOT seen.

Our hope is in God’s power to deliver

So today let’s not be taken by surprise by the fiery darts of the evil one. Rather, let’s resolve to put our absolute trust and hope in God’s power to guard us and our faith because He has promised He will do so.

Family, Parenting and Religion

personal devotion

Uncategorized

do not be surprised by trials

God uses the hard times to mature us

God will protect your faith

God will strengthen your faith

About Michele Howe

Michele Howe is the author of 29 books for women, children, and families. She has published over 3000 articles, reviews, and curriculum. Her newest release is The Humble Life: Walking with Jesus through the Gospels. You can read more about the author here.

Previous Post

February 13, 2024

When God Disrupts Our Lives