Because we resist Satan and stand firm in the promises of the Bible and God's Word, even though there will be suffering, there is the promise that God will restore us. He makes us strong and makes us firm and makes us persevere

We need the reminder that God knows what He is doing and is in complete control, no matter how difficult the fiery trial may become.             

Our present suffering is only for a while. Our various trials are only for a season then the glory that results is eternal. But also, don't forget, our trials are building Christian character. The Greek word translated make you perfect means “to equip”, “to adjust”, “to fit together”. God has several means by which He uses to equip His people for life and service. Suffering is one of them.  The Word of God is another. Prayer is another. Church is also an important tool.  This is restoration - to mend what is broken, to take what is missing and put it right.

Suffering can add to a person's character what is missing. It can repair weaknesses and add greatness. Suffering is meant by God to add the grace awareness to life.           

There are three other words to describe the kind of character God wants us to have. To be strong or “strengthen” refers to God's strength being given - enough to meet the demands of life.  A life with no effort and no discipline is flabby.

The second word, firm, is also translated “established”. That means “to fix firmly”, to set fast”. When we are established, we will not be moved by persecution or led away by false doctrine.     

“Steadfast” means laying the foundation. That is like the rock and anchor upon which we have faith.           

We began our relationship with our Almighty God when we realized that we could take no pride in ourselves. We are sinners in need of forgiveness. We are dependent upon Christ's death on the cross to make us right with God. He died for our sin. When we make our commitment to make Christ as Savior and Lord, He continues the work in us and calls us together with others in Jesus to serve Him together according to our abilities. We now have a focus that is eternal and heavenward. We shall see Him as He is. Jesus is returning for us and to win the victory. Isaiah said, "but as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him."                

Application:   How do we receive power for our struggles in our lives? First, we humble ourselves as sinners and be willing to serve God completely. He gives us His grace. After we have given Him our sin, we give to Him our cares and worries. We have experienced that He really does care and love us. He oversees all of our lives and we resist the evil one by being in the Word, in prayer and in the fellowship of believers. Lastly, we look to the victory that is ours, knowing the strength of God is our hope, our help.

Prayer:   Lord, God, thine is the Kingdom, the Power and the Glory.  Help me to focus on the fact that the victory is won and when You come for Your own, the victory will be ours.

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.”