Set Apart: Every Nation Prayer & FastingSample

The Crucible of Holiness

Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. . . .

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 1 Peter 4:1–5, 12–16

Gold is one of the most valuable metals on earth, but when it’s first mined, it often contains hints of other minerals. For it to be at its highest value point (pure gold), it must be refined with intense heat to melt and separate it from any impurities that would taint its value. As precious as gold is, our faith is even more precious and goes through a similar refining process.

1 Peter 1:7 tells us that our faith will endure tests of genuineness. Throughout this letter, Peter teaches that the call to holiness involves a gathered Christian community, presents an internal challenge, requires correct conduct, is built upon the crux of the cross, and demands commitment. In chapter 4, he reveals holiness will lead you to a crucible.

Being a Christian does not shield us from fire, but the hope of the gospel makes us fireproof. As we face trials, we’re drawn closer to Christ and find comfort because he also suffered.

If we face suffering because our lives are set apart for God, we ultimately will receive a blessing. It may be in this life or it may be in the next, but God always keeps his promises. Although culture, media, our friends, or even our family might sway us in what’s “normative,” we must persevere to live set apart and renew our minds daily to live the call to holiness that God has set before us.

Even in our sufferings, we can rejoice “because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” As God’s consecrated people, we will no doubt find ourselves in the crucibles of life that purify our faith. Let us fix our eyes on the blessing that awaits us and trust that God is at work even amid our suffering. May we find strength in Christ, knowing we will share in his eternal joy and glory.

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

Reflection

• What kind of crucibles have you faced in your walk with Christ? Are you grateful for them?
• How have you felt God strengthen you through suffering?

Faith Step

Take time to thank God for any trials you may be facing. Praise him now for strength and guidance through any trials that may come up in your life.

Pray

God, thank you for walking with me through every trial. You are my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

You provide peace in the midst of my suffering and strengthen me to persevere. When doubts arise, fill me with the assurance of your faithfulness. I will rejoice in suffering, knowing that it leads to endurance, character, and hope.

I trust that as I participate in Christ’s sufferings, I will share in his eternal joy and be made holy to glorify his name. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.