That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.  1 Peter 1:7

The Greek word for “trials” is "peirasmos" which means “to test,” “a putting to proof,” and by implication “adversity.”

1)     TRIALS ARE INEVITABLE AND PART OF THE CHRISTIAN’S LIFE

a)     Acts 14:22 – “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”

b)     John 16:33 – “In the world you WILL have tribulation.”

c)      2 Tim. 3:12 – “All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus WILL suffer persecution.”

2)     THE PROPER REACTION TO TRIALS

a)     James 1:2 – “Count it all joy.”

b)     1 Peter 4:12 – “Do not think it is a strange thing.”

c)      1 Peter 4:13-14 – “Rejoice for you are partaking of Christ’s sufferings.”

d)     Heb. 12:5-11 – “Do not despise it.”

e)     1 Peter 5:9 – You are not alone.

3)     THE PURPOSE OF TRIALS

a)     Romans 5:3-5, James 1:2-4 – Produces in us godly character.

b)     James 1:3, 1 Peter 1:6-7 – Tests our faith.

c)      Psalm 119:67, 71 – Helps keep us from going astray.

4)     LOOK TO GOD IN TIMES OF TRIAL

a)     Heb. 4:14-16 – Christ is our High Priest who sympathizes with us.  Come boldly to God in prayer in your times of need.

b)     Heb. 2:18 – Christ went through testing also (Matt. 4:1-11) and is able to sympathize and help you.

c)      1 Cor. 10:13 – God knows your limitation.

d)     2 Peter 2:9 – The Lord knows how to deliver you.

e)     John 16:33, John 14:27, Isaiah 26:3 – Christ’s perfect peace will sustain you.

f)        Romans 8:35-39 – Nothing shall separate us from the love of Christ.

g)     1 Peter 4:19 – Commit yourself to God.