Turning Trials into Triumphs of God's Grace

Recognize God’s Purposes (1-5)

God uses trials to grow us. James 1:3-4 “for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

Their faith was flourishing (increasing beyond measure).

Their love was abounding. Their care for one another was evidence of genuine faith.

They were building endurance. “The very troubles and afflictions which the world heaps on the believer become, under God, the means of making him what he ought to be. Suffering is not to be thought of as evidence that God has forsaken us, but as evidence that God is with us.”

God uses trials to show the genuineness of our faith.

1 Peter 1:6-7 “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

God uses trials to cause us to look forward to His kingdom!

Acts 5:41 “Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.”

Acts 14:22 “strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”

Endurance in trial is evidence God considers us worthy of His Kingdom.

Rest in God’s Righteous Judgement (5-10a)

How do we keep from growing bitter toward those who mistreat us?

Realize that God is a righteous judge. A judge rewards the righteous and punishes the guilty.

Your faith in the Lord through trial will result in eternal reward. Their persecution of God’s people will result in eternal affliction unless they turn to the Lord.

Example - the Story of Virginia Prodan (Saving my Assasin).

Trust God with your situation and let Him judge your case.

Rejoice in Christ’s Certain Return (10-12)

When Christ returns to reign he will come in glory.

He will be glorified in and through all those who long for His return. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”

I can hear the chariots rumble, I can see the marching throng, The flurry of God's trumpets Spells the end of sin and wrong: Regal robes are now unfolding, Heaven's grandstand's all in place, Heaven's choir now assembled, Start to sing "Amazing Grace!" O the King is coming, The King is coming! I just heard the trumpets sounding, And now His face I see, O the King is coming, The King is coming! Praise God, He's coming for me!