Why would a loving God allow His people to experience suffering, grief, hardship, and trials? In 1 Peter 1:6–7, we discover that suffering is not necessarily a sign that God has abandoned us. For the Christian, trials can be part of God's loving work of refining genuine faith—like gold being tested and purified by fire. Peter reminds us that even in the middle of painful circumstances, believers have reason to rejoice: God has shown us mercy, given us new life in Christ, promised an imperishable inheritance, and is guarding His people by His power. This sermon explores how God uses trials to expose our dependence on the world, confront spiritual complacency, deepen our dependence on Christ, and turn our hearts toward what truly lasts. Are you going through a difficult season? Are you wondering where God is in your suffering? Or have you become comfortable with a Christianity that fits around the rest of your life? The world is not our home. Our suffering is not meaningless. And our hope is not found in temporary things. Scripture: 1 Peter 1:6–7 Join us as we consider what it means to rejoice in Christ even when faith is being tested by fire. Cornerstone Presbyterian Church Branford, Connecticut | Serving New Haven County 🌐 Connect With Us Website: https://cornerstonepresbyterian.church Facebook: https://facebook.com/CornerstonePresbChurch YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfullyreforming3291 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfultoscripture Sermon Audio: https://www.sermonaudio.com/go/faithfultoscripture TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ciceroroma3 X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/Orthoreform