Stranger Things Have Happened

1 Peter 4:12-13
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

Oh how I love this scripture, it is indeed food for the whole man. This scripture brings such clarity in seasons of fiery trials. Why do we think it is strange to be going through a fiery trial?
Similar words to strange: odd, bizarre, outlandish, weird, peculiar, out of the ordinary, unexpected, unfamiliar, foreign, and different.
The opposite of strange is normal. It is indeed normal for true Christians to experience fiery trials. So why then are we so surprised and somewhat caught off guard when we are under fire. Sometimes I encounter Christians who are totally distraught when going through a fiery trial as if they were surprised something of that nature was happening to them.
Fiery trials are apparently different from regular trials.
Fiery defined:
• Burning or full of fire.
• Full of or prone to sudden extremes of emotions.

These kinds of trials are definitely designed to do real damage to the life and confidence of the believer in Christ. The nature of fire is to consume, it will burn and destroy until there is nothing left but ashes. Fire not only burns whatever it is on but can spread to whatever is near it, unless it is contained. That’s why when people are going through fiery trials and you step in to help make sure you are being lead by the Holy Spirit and are equip with your spiritual armor.
It is not the will of God for any sort of trial, regular or extra spicy, to defeat or destroy His people.
Isaiah 43:1-2
But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.


If you are going through a fiery trial at this very moment, rejoice, and begin to give God praise that this thing will never overtake or consume you. Rejoice and focus on the goodness of God that is bringing you out of this situation without being burned! Now that’s supernatural. Rejoice and give God the Highest praise! You are a child of the Most High God and He will never leave you or forsake you. You have been FIRE-PROOFED! Hallelujah!