The rich young ruler was a good man who observed the ten commandments from his youth, but it is sad to discover that he was not good enough for heaven. He was disqualified, because according to Jesus, he lacked one thing: he had no power over his material possessions. He failed the test to deny himself, take up his cross and follow the Lord. Although he was a good man, he was not saved.

The Lord is a shelter in the time of storm for those who trust in Him. Addressing the believer, the Lord said: "I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honour him" - Psalm 91:15b. There is no need to worry since God has promised to be with you in troublous times. God is your defence and no weapon that is fashioned against you shall prosper.

Blessed or happy are those who endure the persecutions that befall them because of their faith in Christ. Job lost all his children and all his possessions in one day but he neither sinned nor charged God foolishly. On a later date Job was also smitten with sore boils from the sole of his foot to his crown. Despite the ungodly counsel given by his wife, to curse God and die, Job chose to retain his integrity and would not sin with his lips against the Lord.

The Comforter, in the person of the Holy Spirit has been sent to encourage believers. He is the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. The way you see God will influence how you relate to Him and the manner in which you approach the challenges you encounter.

The Bible is replete with passages that talk about God's people going through trials for their faith. God allows fiery trials to prove the extent of your love for Him. Every believer at some point will experience fiery trial in one form or another. The good news is that trials will always come to pass - they are timed to last for a season and not designed to destroy the believer.