When we think of the word ‘trials‘, we may think first of all of trials in court (where a person’s innocence or guilt is established) or may think of sporting trials (e.g. horse trials or motorcycle trials.)
When we think of trials, we usually think of obstacles to overcome and other constraints such as time limits. Trials and tests are similar, but we need to understand that these are part of life and come to us even as Christians so that our faith can be proved genuine (see 1 Pet 1:3-7).
In this passage, we learn of God’s abundant mercy and blessings which await us in heaven (rather like a never-ending gobstopper, these things will never fail!) However, we like the idea of blessings, unspeakable joy and God’s dynamic power which is able to keep us, but are not so keen on the trials which are also a part of our pilgrimage on earth. God’s power is like dynamite and can blast away our problems, but sometimes He calls us to endure trials, taking us through these things (such as illness, stress, family strife, financial difficulties, bereavement and so on), even as Isaiah prophesied. (Is 43:1-2) We should not be surprised when trials come (1 Pet 4:12-13), somehow feeling that we should be exempt from these things, but need to learn to rely on the grace God gives us in these situations (2 Cor 12:7-9).
When we go through these trials, chaotic and distressing though these are, we find we are not drowned or burnt. Instead, God’s plan is for us to come out the other side stronger in Him, with our faith strengthened and our ability to empathise with others made stronger.