God can take the trials of our lives and turn them into glory for Him if we will allow it. When going through difficult times, I try to look at the situation as a refining of my faith. I know God didn’t make the trial happen, but that He can use it to show me that He is in control because He is God. Taking a look at 1 Peter 4:12-13:
“Beloved, do not thing it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.”
Many of you may recall the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego. The story can be found in Daniel chapter 3 for further reading. Basically, King Nebuchadnezzar had a golden image that he required everyone to bow down and worship. If they did not, he would have them thrown into a fiery furnace. Well these 3 young rebels served the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob only, so they were brought before the king. The king gave them the opportunity to bow or be burned.
“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, ‘O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no heed to answer you in this matter. If this is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.” (Vs.16-18)
So Nebuchadnezzar was furious and commanded the furnace be heated 7 times hotter than usual. The three men were bound up and cast into the fiery furnace to die. Interestingly, it was the men that bound Shadrach Meshach and Abed-Nego who were burned to death just delivering them to the furnace! When the king went to view the 3 young men, he saw 4 all walking around. This forth one was believed by many to be Christ, the Son of God (pre-Jesus) who was with them during their fiery trial. Nebuchadnezzar called for the men to be released. Not one single hair on their head was scorched. The king then became a believer and ordered that anyone who speak against God would be cut and their homes be burned.
What an awesome testimony I find in this story that God would allow His children to go into a trial and be there in the midst of them. Had they not shown faithfulness though this, King Nebuchadnezzar, who was highly influential, may have never believed.
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (James 1:2)
Scripture references are quoted from the NKJV.
Please check the following blogs within this series (Please note: Some blogs won’t be available for viewing until they’ve been formally released):
Trials and Faith: Intro
Trials and Faith: Why is This Happening?
Trials and Faith: The First Christian Martyr
Trials and Faith: Jesus Freaks
Trials and Faith: Resisting Temptation to Sin