We all sometimes wonder why God allows trials to come into the lives of Christians such as death of loved ones, poor health, loss of jobs or positions, or unhappy family situations.  We understand that we are just passing through this life and Heaven is our ultimate destination but why cannot this life be at least comfortable for us at all times.  God’s purpose in allowing trials is to test our faith and show the genuineness of it and to glorify God by humbling ourselves to submission to God who allows both good and bad things into our lives as He wills in his sovereignty. 

I Peter 1:6-7 states…that “In this (our salvation) 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.”  Greatly rejoice means “to be exceedingly glad, exuberantly jubilant”.   John MacArthur states that “This is joy that is not based on changing temporal circumstances but is used of joy that comes from the unchanging, eternal relationship with God.”   Our eternal relationship with God through the salvation he provided is more than sufficient to see us through the trials of this life which only last “a little while”.  Further, trials provide comfort to us that our faith is genuine and that we have the hope of Heaven and future reward.  

When we respond appropriately to trials, in faith and submission to God, this glorifies God as we testify to the fact that God is the one in control and has the authority to work in us both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Phil 2:13.  The Greek word for “will” in this verse indicates a studied intent to fulfill a planned purpose.  We know that what God allows into our lives is ultimately for our good (Romans 8:28) and part of that good is fulfilling one of our duties to glorify God in all that we do. I Corinthians 10:31.  God wants His people to submissively do and live through what satisfies Him and accomplishes his sovereign purpose for their lives. He will then make them complete in every good work to do His will – working in them what is well-pleasing in His sight. Hebrews 13:21.