When faith is tested by pressure, pain, and spiritual opposition, God has not left you alone. In this message from 1 Peter 4 and 5, Pastor Chris explains how trials become the very places where God deepens your faith, strengthens your character, and teaches you to trust him. This episode helps you stand firm when life pushes back and challenges your walk with Christ.

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18199675

Key Points:

PREPARE for the Pressure of Trials
1 Peter 4:12-13
Trials are normal for followers of Jesus. God uses them to refine your trust in him and shape you to reflect the character of Christ.

PRAISE Christ in the Pain
1 Peter 4:14-16
When your faith leads to misunderstanding or opposition, Scripture calls you blessed. Choosing praise keeps your attention on Christ instead of the weight of your circumstances.

PLACE Your Life in God’s Hands
1 Peter 4:17-19
God’s refining work begins with his own people. Trust him enough to continue doing what is right, even when the path is difficult or unclear.

POUR Out Your Cares before Him
1 Peter 5:6-7
God invites you to bring every burden to him. Casting your cares on the Lord is a humble act of faith, acknowledging his care and authority in your life.

PROTECT Your Heart against the Enemy and Persevere in Grace
1 Peter 5:8-11
You face real spiritual opposition. Stand alert, resist the enemy’s lies, and rely on God’s strength. He promises to restore, support, strengthen, and establish you after you have suffered for a little while.

Personal Stories
Pastor Chris shares the true account of Alexander Selkirk, the sailor stranded alone for four years. His greatest battle was not the environment but the discouragement within him. What seemed like a breaking season became a shaping season, illustrating how God builds perseverance in times of pressure and spiritual struggle.

Quotes
Sometimes it feels like you are getting buried when really you are getting planted.
It glorifies the Lord when you worship and serve him when it is not convenient, not comfortable, and not easy.

Takeaways:

Reflect on where your faith feels tested and ask God to strengthen you in that place.
Respond to one difficult situation this week with trust and praise rather than frustration.
Take time to pour out specific cares before the Lord instead of carrying them alone.
Encourage someone facing pressure or opposition so neither of you stand alone.

Scripture
1 Peter 4 and 5, Romans 8, Philippians 3, Daniel 3, Psalm 119, 1 John 1 and 3.

Keywords:
faith, trials, opposition, perseverance, spiritual battle, endurance, Christian life, trust, hope, suffering

Challenge:
Ask the Lord to help you persevere in faith through trials and opposition and stand firm in his grace this week.

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The WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast shares practical and encouraging Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien to help you grow in your walk with Christ. A new message is released every Sunday. Episodes marked with an asterisk (*) are replay episodes from previous years. Find resources at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church in Virginia, MN. Follow and review on your favorite platform. Send comments to: [email protected]