The genuineness of faith is proven by difficulties. 1 Peter 1:7 says, “the trial of your faith” (KJV) the Greek word here means “testing”, and the NKJ says “genuineness”. Peter here alludes to gold which is one of the most enduring metals, yet it must be refined by fire to remove impurities and prove its genuineness. If gold, which can perish or be lost, must be so purified, how much more our faith, which is far more precious, is purified and proven solid when it has passed through difficulties which Peter describes as a “fiery trial” in 4:12. James 1:2 says, “count it all joy when you fall into various trials” (the KJV says temptations). Remember that Jesus Himself was so tempted or tested in Luke 4:1-13 and Hebrews 4:15. 1 Timothy 6:12 says, “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life…” Again James in 1:12 picks it up saying, “Blessed is the man who endures temptation, for when he has been approved he will receive the crown of life.” And it seems this end reward at the second coming of Jesus is also what Peter has in mind as an incentive to standing firm in the faith, 1 Peter 1:7-9. No matter the temptation, trial, or testing, which can come in many forms, God says, “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” Revelation 2:10. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong” 1 Corinthians 16:13 KJV. Don’t give up!
How is your faith?
By Rose Hill
The genuineness of your faith may go through a test,
And you may wonder Lord, where there rest?
But to God your faith is more precious than gold,
And He wants to make your faith grow very bold.
So He will test and purify it by fire,
As long as knowing Him is your greatest desire.
This proving of your faith is intended to redound,
And much honor and glory in you will be found.
You will bring to the Lord very much praise,
When you serve and honor Him all of your days.
Unless otherwise noted scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission.