If you face trials, remember that you are not alone. When I read the Bible, I realize that trials are life’s baseline—especially for Christians. Christians have the privilege of being delivered through and refined by our trials. Even though it doesn’t feel good, I’m learning that trials benefit me. For instance, through my trials, I’ve learned not to view others as the enemy. I'm becoming more empathetic toward others who’ve experienced difficult situations.
Spiritual warfare is closer than we realize. Some trials arise from poor choices, while others result from the devil’s attacks on those who are committed to serving Christ. Satan despises that. Remember, “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, … against spiritual hosts of wickedness…” (Ephesians 6:12).
Yet, through my trials, I’ve discovered a deep love for God. As I’ve recognized my desperate reliance on Him, a certain intimacy has blossomed, creating a new love for Jesus. Perhaps you've also been in a place of pain and chaos, and after trusting Jesus, you’ve been surprised by the peace that follows surrender.
Philippians 4:6 reminds us, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” By sharing our worries with God, we are drawn close to Him. More than that, we are encouraged to make supplication, which means earnestly or humbly begging for something. God knows what we need, but He also understands that intimacy grows best through heartfelt prayer as we express the desires of our hearts.
I often think about Christian martyrs. They were not martyrs solely because of their horrific deaths. It wasn’t just at the stake, the chopping block, or the firing squad that they trusted in God. No, they were martyrs because of how they lived. Their everyday faith, nourished daily through trials, bore fruit during their final heroic chapter. Some sang. Some peacefully went to sleep. But they did not recant or back away from their close friendship with Jesus.
John Huss was a Christian reformer who challenged the abuses of the Roman Catholic Church. His steadfast refusal to recant his Bible-based beliefs led him to the stake—singing!
Paul and Silas were imprisoned after freeing a girl from evil spirits. After being beaten, they prayed in jail, singing praises to God in front of the other prisoners and the guards. Stop and think about it. During our trials—whether they involve habits, addictions, or circumstances beyond our control—do we instinctively pray and sing? This isn’t easy, but when Paul and Silas did it, an earthquake suddenly opened the prison doors (Acts 16:12-26)!
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In conclusion, it’s important to remember that the Christian life unfolds over time. Scripture provides guidance on how to face trials: “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4), and “In everything give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Life isn’t always good, but God is always good. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart” (Proverbs 3:5). He loves you. He has amazing plans for you. He wants you in heaven! As we embrace every trial to practice this process, we will also sing through the fire.
All scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
