What is the meaning of 1 Peter 1:6?

In this you greatly rejoice

The phrase “In this” looks back to the living hope, resurrection power, and imperishable inheritance described in 1 Peter 1:3-5. Those certainties fuel an exuberant, present-tense joy (Romans 5:2; Philippians 4:4; John 16:22). Joy is anchored in what God has done and will do, so it can flourish even when outward conditions are hard (Habakkuk 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:16).

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though now

“Now” marks the tension of our current earthly moment—caught between Christ’s finished work and His future return (Titus 2:13). Joy and hardship coexist (2 Corinthians 6:10); we taste salvation already, yet await its full unveiling (Romans 8:23).

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for a little while

Every sorrow is temporary beside eternity (2 Corinthians 4:17; Psalm 30:5). God appoints the season and its length (Ecclesiastes 3:1), and He promises to restore us after we have suffered “a little while” (1 Peter 5:10).

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you may have had to suffer grief

The wording shows necessity under God’s sovereignty. Suffering is not random; it serves His loving purposes (John 15:2; 2 Timothy 3:12). Grief is real and acknowledged (John 11:35; Hebrews 12:11), yet joy can occupy the same heart (2 Corinthians 7:4).

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in various trials

Trials differ in shape—persecution, illness, loss—but all are tools in God’s hand (James 1:2; 1 Corinthians 10:13). Their variety refines faith “more precious than gold” (1 Peter 1:7) and equips us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:4).

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summary

Our present “now” may include necessary, varied, and painful trials, but they are brief beside forever. Because Christ lives, our inheritance is secure, and God rules every moment, we can rejoice deeply even while we grieve. 1 Peter 1:6 calls believers to hold both realities together—unshakeable joy in salvation and steadfast endurance through passing hardships.