Trials by Fire

by John Parker

Most of us remember the major ice storm of 1994, when power was out for several I days for many N ashvillians and much tree damage occurred. One can still walk through Radnor Lake state park and see large trees that fell that night. According to my records, another snow fell in March of 1996, and a spokesman for emergency services made the observation that there were still dead limbs on trees from the storm of 1994, and this storm two years later was causing them to fall.

Natural storms are destructive, but they do have their advantages. Several years ago our family visited Yellowstone National Park the year following the huge fire there. At the time that fire seemed devastating, but in the long run it opened up the forest for new growth.

No one enjoys persecution, but when Christians suffer for being Christians there are benefits. Such treatment removes the deadwood from our souls and lives and causes us to remember who we are and what our purpose is. Peter wrote to Christians dispersed throughout Asia Minor concerning the trials they were to face:

1 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that When His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 14 If you are reproached for thy name!

Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. ( 1 Peter 4: 1-2, 12-14, 16)