Joy Unspeakable

JOY UNSPEAKABLE

By Carolyn Dale Newell

 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise…at the appearing of Jesus Christ: whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 

1 Peter 1:7-8 KJV

Peter wrote this epistle to Christians who were in fear for their lives. Some were burned alive, while others were thrown to the lions. We cannot imagine such horrific persecution. Peter reminded them of their reason for joy. Yes – joy – in the midst of dire trials. Joy which words cannot describe.

These trials proved the genuineness of their faith. Only a genuine Christian would face death without renouncing Christ. Assurance of one’s faith is truly a reason for joy.

Peter also reminded them of their future glory in heaven. He wanted them to take their eyes off their trials and put them on God.

Finally, Peter explained that trusting Jesus Christ in the midst of their trials would give them unspeakable joy. They had never seen Jesus yet they loved and trusted Him. The communion believers have with God is magnified during trials. There is such sweet fellowship as we trust Him to bring us through difficult situations.

We may not be facing death by fire, but like the early Christians, we can have joy unspeakable in our trials too. Believers must look toward the glory that is reserved for us, knowing our faith is real. We love and trust Christ. Every time we come through a fiery trial, we trust Him more because we see the way He carries us through the roughest times.

Let us be determined not to allow these temporary trials of this world steal our great joy. Joy has nothing to do with our circumstances. It has everything to do with God.

Heavenly Father, we know You have a purpose for every trial we endure. Our joy comes from You. Protect that joy as we travel troubled waters focusing on You and not the storm at hand. Thank You for joy unspeakable. Amen.

DIG DEEPER

Read 1 Peter 1:3-9.

HIKING THE TRAIL

Has your joy been depleted by the enemy? Here are Peter’s reasons to be joyful. Reflect on them as you pray.

 

• Genuine salvation
• The glory of heaven
• Faith in Christ’s ability to bring us through trials.

Copyright 2014 Carolyn Dale Newell.

You may also like to read “Joy During Trials” https://amountainoffaith.wordpress.com/2015/04/12/joy-during-trials/

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