Resilient: Powerful Hope in a Dangerous WorldSample

Peter is leading up to something in these few verses here. “For the time has come for judgment….” We talked about purpose in suffering for Jesus, and Peter gives us one of those reasons here in verse 17. Judgment never sounds like a good thing, and for us who follow Jesus, we can be reassured that our Judge is righteous and good.

Our suffering is a judgment from God - in a purifying and positive sense. Back in verse 12, Peter calls our suffering “fiery trials.” Just like purifying fine metals in the fire, God can use these judgments - or sufferings - to help purify us. Our growth in our walk with Jesus is another purpose we can find in our trials and sufferings. But what about those who do not know and follow Jesus? If we are promised to suffer as followers of Jesus, it is safe to say that those around us who don’t also experience suffering. Maybe you remember what it was like when trials came before knowing Jesus. Maybe you remember feeling hopeless. Maybe you felt like it was all pointless. How much worse was your suffering before knowing the hope of Jesus?

Remembering that others are suffering without the purpose or hope that Jesus brings can be quite jarring. It can help us realize our hope and the hope we can bring to others. When we can get real and say “me too” while walking with someone else who is suffering, we can present to them that they can have hope and a purpose.

Reflection Questions

1. Looking back over your past trials, how has God helped you grow through them?
2. Do you believe God is a good judge? Why or why not? Ask for God to reveal His goodness to you.
3. Who can you bring hope to today?