The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Peter 1:6-7, “In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary,

you have been distressed by various trials,

7that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though

tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus

Christ.”

Are you facing any serious trials? Quite honestly, I am. Some are more serious, of course, than others; but when we’re faced with difficulties of any kind, it’s it big to us. When our trials are compared with those of others, however, they often seem small and sometimes even insignificant.

Peter knew all about trials. Remember when he suffered rebuke from Jesus for slicing off that servant’s ear in the Garden of Gethsemane? Then he suffered more greatly when he denied knowing Jesus –three times! Yes, Peter knew all about distress. Yet here in the verses above,

he tells us to rejoice when we’re distressed. Why would he say that?

First of all, trials are only “for a little while.” They often seem like they’re forever, but they’re not. What they are is a “proof of your faith.” Sometimes we encounter trials we simply cannot believe are from the LORD. “Why, LORD,” we cry, “are you doing this to me?” Sometimes it’s not from the LORD, but a trial that He is allowing. Whichever is true, He is in control! So, don’t get distressed!

When the trials are all over, they will “be found to result in praise and glory and honor” of the LORD Jesus Christ. And remembering how He suffered for us, how could we not endure suffering for Him?

When I had troubles in earlier times in my life, I used to get really upset. Rose Marie would

start singing this little chorus –

Cheer up, you saints of God

There’s nothing to worry about;

Nothing to make you feel afraid,

Nothing to make you doubt.

Remember Jesus never fails,

So, why not trust Him and shout?

You’ll be sorry you worried at all

Tomorrow morning.

Things got right very quickly!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”