Trials and Suffering
Trials and Suffering5
Growth in Grace
By Thomas Brooks0JAS 1:2Thomas Brooks emphasizes that spiritual growth in grace often occurs through divine methods that may initially seem to hinder rather than help. He compares the necessity of winter for a fruitful harvest to the role of fiery trials in enhancing grace within believers. Despite the challenges and sufferings faced, these experiences ultimately transform small sparks of grace into a powerful flame. Brooks reassures that no external forces can prevent God from fostering holiness, humility, and other virtues in His people. The message encourages believers to embrace trials as a means of deepening their faith and character.
Brought to a Safe Place
By David Wilkerson0JOB 23:10PSA 34:18PSA 46:1ISA 41:10JER 9:7LAM 3:22ROM 8:282CO 4:17HEB 13:51PE 4:12David Wilkerson emphasizes that even the most faithful Christians can face overwhelming trials and suffering, which may lead them to question God's presence in their pain. He reassures believers that these fiery trials are part of spiritual growth and that God uses them to refine and strengthen faith. Wilkerson encourages listeners to trust in God's promises and to understand that true faith does not equate to constant happiness or prosperity. Instead, it is about knowing that God is always with us, even in our darkest moments, and that He will ultimately bring us to a safe place. He urges believers to wait patiently for God's deliverance.
1 & 2 Peter Chapter 1 Words of Comfort for Tried Ones
By A.B. Simpson01PE 1:6A.B. Simpson emphasizes the comforting messages found in 1 and 2 Peter for those enduring trials, highlighting that these challenges are not without purpose and serve to strengthen faith. He reflects on Peter's transformation from a fearful disciple to a source of hope and encouragement for others, illustrating how trials can lead to spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God. Simpson reassures believers that their suffering is temporary and precious, ultimately leading to praise and glory at Christ's return. He encourages the faithful to view their trials as opportunities to witness for Christ and to remember that they are not alone in their struggles, as others share in similar afflictions.
Conditions of Being Kept
By Charles Finney0ROM 8:28HEB 10:23JAS 1:21PE 4:19Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of committing our souls to God amidst trials and suffering, explaining that such afflictions are often part of God's will for our sanctification and ultimate good. He clarifies that true commitment involves active trust and obedience, not merely passive belief, and that God, as a faithful Creator, will keep those who genuinely commit their souls to Him in well doing. Finney warns against common misconceptions about faith and obedience, urging believers to maintain their confidence in God during difficult times, as these trials serve to strengthen their faith and prepare them for eternal glory.
Words of Comfort for Tried Ones
By A.B. Simpson01PE 1:6A.B. Simpson delivers a powerful message of hope and comfort for those enduring trials, emphasizing that these challenges are not without purpose and can lead to spiritual growth and transformation. He reflects on Peter's journey from denial to becoming a source of encouragement for others, illustrating how trials refine faith and prepare believers for greater ministry. Simpson reassures the congregation that their suffering is temporary and precious, ultimately leading to praise and glory at Christ's return. He encourages them to view their trials as opportunities to witness for Christ and to remember that they are not alone in their struggles, as others share in similar afflictions. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's grace and the promise of eternal glory after enduring hardships.