Ironia

"Q4. (1:6-7) Can you remember any instances in which God used difficult circumstances to refine and purify your faith? What did God accomplish in your life? How, exactly, does genuine, tested faith bring glory to Jesus?" My faith was refined and purified as I stood at the bedside of my saved dying mother in the hospital. I sensed the presence of the Lord, but yet I knew that there was nothing else I coiuld do for my mother. The Lord had truly taken over. This point in my life drew me closer to the Lord. I did not drift away from the Lord, but truly let me know that all praises and honor belong to Him!

"Q5. (1:8-9) According to 1 Peter 1:8-9, what is the basis of Christian joy that is "inexpressible and glorious"? How does this joy interplay with human emotions? Is it essentially emotional? How does it differ from what is generally regarded as the pursuit of "happiness"? Extra Credit: How can you tell the genuine article of joy from the counterfeit? The basis of our Christian joy is our salvation, and knowing that one day, we will be with Christ in Heaven. I believe that this joy is placed within our hearts by the Holy Spirit! Our joy is not based on human emotions. Our joy is not based on our happiness or on circumstances. If our joy is merely based on our circumstances, it is counterfeit.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Q2. (1:15-16) In your own words, how would you define "holiness"? In what sense are you (by definition) holy now? In what sense must you be obedient in order to become holy? What is your biggest struggle with holiness?" Holiness to me is the same as being godly by opening your heart, mind and actions to the direction of God through yielding to Him with the aid of the Holy Spirit. My heart, mind and actions are open to the direction of God so therefore, I am holy now. My biggest struggle with holiness is moment by moment keeping my heart, mind and actions open to God.

His power, my faith.