January 13

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. — 1 Pet 4:12 BSB

The “fiery trial” is not something strange that happens only to a few of the Lord’s people; it is, to some extent, the appointed path for all. Didn’t the Lord say to His people, “I have chosen you in the furnace of affliction”? So, all who are chosen must pass through the furnace of affliction and know the fiery trial by experience, for through it, they partake in Christ’s sufferings.

This is necessary in order to share in His glory. “If we suffer with Him, we will also be glorified with Him.” They suffer with Him “so that when His glory is revealed, they may be glad with exceeding joy.” Suffering with and for Christ in the furnace of affliction purifies the soul, preserves it from corruption, gives it spiritual health, and marks it with a flavor of grace. It is a sign of our interest in the everlasting covenant and a seal of friendship and peace with God.