Distressed By Trials, If Need Be

1 Peter 1: 3-7

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy, has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you (like a table at a great restaurant, you must show up to obtain this), who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation, ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now, for a little while, IF NEED BE, YOU HAVE BEEN GRIEVED BY VARIOUS TRIALS, so that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested (or proved) by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ".


We know that "all become partakers of His holiness by His chastening" (Hebrews 12), so what about this "if need be" stuff? If Paul tells us that we must be chastened, why would Peter say "if"? Again, it is written in Hebrews, that "chastening yields the peaceable fruits of righteousness to those who have been trained by it". Why does Peter say "if" when "must" seems to be correct regarding trials?


I am asking you to consider that the "if need be" trials are corrective; probably secondary to a willing disregard of His direction. As we grow up into all things in Christ, we all have experienced periods where perseverance is necessary. Seemingly waiting as He builds us up in Him revelation by revelation, precept upon precept. Yet I also have experienced distressing trials, seemingly punitive and accompanied by physical pain or soulish grief, when I should know better and be established in His Truth. Paul gives an example of this in 2 Corinthians 12:1-10. He tells us that he was "exalted above measure" by the visions and revelations of the Lord. "A thorn in the flesh was given me", Paul said. The Lord responds, "My grace is sufficient for you". If I may, "What I have given you is sufficient in and of itself. Stay with Me and in Me for Satan lies at the door to destroy, tempting your pride". Paul had become "puffed up" in/with the Truth that Jesus had graced him with. We will inevitably do the same and have to be corrected. The distressing trial that Paul endured worked out for good because He was willing to repent. Others, called to minister His Word have not fared as well and, as a result, have not finished the race set before them.


As the wise Masterbuilder, He knows what we need to become a dwelling place for Him in His fullness. As that which is perfect/complete comes, childish things must be put away.