1 Peter 1:6-12
key verse: 9
People rejoice in happy moments and are saddened in the midst of trials, but the paradigm of believers is different. Peter defines spiritual joy while exhorting us to appreciate our privilege.
1. You will jump for joy (6-9)
Peter said we must jump for joy when we endure trials. Believers are troubled by difficult situations, but these trials are given so that the elected may be purified and stand before the Lord pure on the day of judgement. Peter praises the faith of these dispersed believers, since they loved Jesus without seeing Him, and they rejoiced in their coming salvation. Only faith can gain us the prize of salvation for our souls. God has elected us, but we must see and judge. This is why we must not abandon our route.
2. They inquired carefully (10-12)
The privilege of the elected is inexplicable; they are agents of eternal salvation. This is because of the blood of Jesus Christ. They loved Him and believed without seeing and by faith they obtained salvation. Though, if Jesus had not revealed Himself to them, they would not have known how to obtain salvation, and we wouldn't know the value of their privilege. For a long time, the prophets inquired carefully into the mystery of salvation and the moment of its coming, which was revealed to them through the Spirit. The suffering and glory of Jesus were but enigmas to them. Thanks to Jesus, the elected Christians now know what it's all about.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for giving me trials, so that my soul would be purified. Help me to walk in faith until the salvation of my soul is completed.
Bottom line: Rejoice in the midst of trials
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