First, you should never be surprised when your faith is tested. But do make the distinction between ‘test’ and ‘temp’. The devil is always placing temptations in our way. He would love to prove to us that we really aren’t saved and never will be. His ways are lies and deceptions which we do fall for at times. Do remember though, that the Lord NEVER temps us, but He will test. Too often our shame gets in our way and we don’t choose the simplest path – confession to cleansing (1 John 1:9). However, when it isn’t a temptation but a test… how do we respond?
“…rejoice greatly, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, which is much more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested and purified by fire, may be found to result in [your] praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1Peter 1: 6-7, AMP)
And remember that testing is for OUR good – we prove to ourselves that our faith is strong (or needs strengthening). Point being that we should never be surprised at challenges, but the bottom line really is – NO ONE CAN TAKE YOUR FAITH FROM YOU. You can’t lose it either… or misplace it. You can walk away from it, but this is always a conscious decision.
“Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4, AMP)
Count it joy?! I suspect that the ‘joy’ comes from how you define and view ‘trials’. While they may not be particularly pleasant at the moment, as you move through the trial to success (and yes, success as the end result is my definition; it relates to understanding as much as anything) and see what has transpired, how the trial occurred and how you responded… then joy can become the reaction to all that. And it also says – we will be lacking in nothing!!!!!
Also, look at the next sentence… ‘BE ASSURED’. To me, that’s a promise that though my faith may be tested, there is a positive result – ‘produces endurance’ and prepares me. Tests are designed to help us actually know what we know and how to act on that. There not designed to shame or embarrass us but to help us grow and mature, and only our attitude will make the difference.
