1 Peter 1 begins with Peter addressing “the pilgrims of the Dispersion” (1 Pet 1:1), who were the Christians who fled to different places in the period leading up to the great fire in Rome, where there was widespread persecution of Christians by Nero.

Just like them, our lives as Christians are also likened to that of sojourners and pilgrims, where we are just passing through the world for this temporary period of our lives, before we return to our true home where our citizenship is – heaven (Phil 3:20). As we live our lives, we too are bound to face periods of difficulties and suffering. For some, suffering causes their faith to waver as they question God’s purpose, or even use their suffering as the basis that a merciful God does not exist. Yet Peter tells us in this epistle that there is great value in suffering.

“In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,” (1 Pet 1:6-7)

Peter encourages them, and us, that there is purpose in suffering – to test and build up the genuineness of faith. Similarly, James 1:2-4 tells us that trials test our faith, ultimately for the purpose of perfecting us before God. Later on in this epistle, Peter once again tells the Christians that facing “fiery trials” is part and parcel of their journey of faith, and that partaking of Christ’s suffering is something they should rejoice in (1 Pet 4:12-13).

What struck me most was that despite all their suffering, the early Christians were never told to rejoice because God would remove these trials. Instead, Peter repeatedly mentions the immense value of Jesus’ sacrifice, reminding them of the future reward reserved in heaven for those who are kept by the power of God, and endure to the end. (1 Pet 1:4-5)

Just like them, we are pilgrims in this world trodding towards our true and eternal home with the Lord. This journey will have its share of troubles, but we must always remember that our suffering has a purpose in perfecting our faith. Therefore let us anchor ourselves on the greatest hope that we have in this lifetime – the salvation of our souls.

“...Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls” (1 Pet 1:8-9)

Reflection questions:

1. What is a difficulty I am facing in life right now?

2. What is something God might be trying to perfect in me through these suffering?