1 Peter 1:8.—Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Trials benefit the believer in three wonderful ways. First trials help to manifest the true believers. Secondly, trials help to beautify the truth believed so it’s value is demonstrated. Finally, trials help the believer to turn again to God–the giver of truth. And there were two kinds of operation, or exercise of true religion, in them, under their sufferings, that the apostle takes notice of in the text, wherein these benefits appeared. 1. Love to Christ: “Whom having not yet seen, ye love.” 2. Joy in Christ. Though their outward sufferings were very grievous, yet their inward spiritual joys were greater than their sufferings; and these supported them, and enabled them to suffer with cheerfulness. (JONATHAN EDWARDS)
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