Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory,

Lord, this passage provides perfect confidence that I am guarded and shepherded through trials of various kinds. It demonstrates that the purpose of these trials is to test the genuineness of my faith and, by implication, reveal and repair weaknesses therein. Thank You, Lord, that Your love is sufficient to bring me into a deeper, more perfect relationship with You.

Today's readings in the Psalms:

Morning: Psalm 114

Mid-day: 119:17-24

Evening: Psalm 40

Voices Together is available as an annual daily devotional and can be purchased at theFellowship Of Ailbe bookstore.