1 Peter 1:7 (ESV) — 7 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.
NOTE: What is
genuine faith? In context, it survives testing by fire. Genuine faith is
interested in Jesus receiving praise and glory and honor. What is disingenuous
faith? It does not do well when tested. That is not to say it is not honest or
emotional, those are good qualities. I believe we all need to rail at God at
times. The stoic response is not faith but the psychological response of a
person trying to ignore pain in the hope he won't be hurt. Also disingenuous
faith is more interested in how they are perceived than how God is perceived.
They glory in their pity. They want to be seen as some spiritual giant, yet
they really are a faithless ant. Let faith do its work. Recognize the pain.
Call out to God in tears. Be angry at God. But in the end, know, he is the only
one who really cares and is working for our best. Others want to remove the
pain, God wants so much more.
PRAYER: Father, help
me to support others as they struggle through times of testing. Suffering is
painful, it doesn't matter the circumstances. They all hurt when you are in the
midst of it. Help us to evaluate our faith during those times. It is not a bad
exercise and is probably needed by all. Some of us just play the game. God,
open our eyes to you and to what true faith really is.
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