Reading through the letters of Peter recently reminded me of the precious hope we have as Christians. Known as the Apostle of Hope, Peter wrote to believers who were suffering persecution, urging them to trust God in the midst of great trials. He emphasizes three important truths about the pain and suffering of life: trials are inevitable, temporary, and purposeful.

They are inevitable because we live in a fallen world under sin’s curse. They are temporary because we know they will one day come to an end. And they are purposeful because God, in His sovereign grace, uses life’s trials to accomplish eternal good.

When bad things happen, we’re often tempted to react carnally—with anger, frustration, doubt, fear, or even despair. But Peter offers three timeless ways to respond to adversity. Though written 2,000 years ago, his inspired counsel remains just as relevant today.

1. Humility

Negative reactions to trials often stem from pride—the notion that the Lord is either uncaring or unable to intervene. When we become angry with God, we imply that we know better than He does what’s best for us. It’s like Jacob crying out in his distress, “All these things are against me!” (Genesis 42:36).

Peter’s advice? “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God.” This is the same hand that “works all things according to the counsel of His will” (Ephesians 1:11). One of the greatest demonstrations of genuine faith is submitting humbly to God’s will, no matter the circumstances.

2. Vigilance

Our adversary “the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Those enduring fiery trials must remember that Satan uses hardship to tempt us to question God’s love. He plants thoughts of fear to rob us of joy and peace. He stirs anger and resentment, tempting us to blame God for our troubles. That’s why Peter exhorts believers to remain vigilant—alert to the enemy’s schemes—especially when we’re most vulnerable.

3. Perseverance

True saving faith perseveres in spite of circumstances. Peter instructs us to “cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you” (v.7). He reminds us that God uses these tribulations to strengthen our faith (v.10). What fuels perseverance is hope—not the world’s wishful thinking, but confident trust in God’s promises and the assurance that eternal glory awaits those who hope in Christ.

This is a good test for us. A living hope humbles itself before a God who is all-good, all-powerful, and all-knowing. It stays vigilant, knowing that Satan opposes us through life’s hardships. And it perseveres, trusting God in spite of circumstances.

Does this describe how you respond when life grows difficult?