How do you respond to tests? Actually, can one ever ‘enjoy’ being tested? But they are inevitable… aren’t they. However, can you identify when what you are experiencing IS a test v. from your own missteps or (fill in the blank)? Tests are a separate category all to themselves. Tests by definition are designed to help us know what we know and what we still need to learn. That is the basic method to discover if what you are experiencing is a test or not.
Tests, scriptural? Oh yes. There are over 57 verses that talk about testing.
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.” (James 1:2-3)
“… so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;” (1 Peter 1:7)
“But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good;” (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
These few scriptures explain the various ways and areas that testing occurs. Testing’s purpose should be an assessment of what has been learned and retained, not a statement of the value of a person.
However, we do associate a high degree of accomplishment on tests with value. The point should be on a process – learning, rather than most typical definitions. I remember when I was teaching that I tended to use tests and the results of the students as a test of my teaching. Was I actually doing what I needed to do about the subject so that students understood. Different emphasis.
The Word teaches us that we are tested, but the testing really is for our benefit. I’ve never believed that the Lord puts barriers and obstacles in our paths to prove how smart He is. Our tests are preparatory. He is doing all that He can so that we can and do resist the devil.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)
Sometimes the action associated with resisting is… to stand.
“…Therefore put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand….” (Ephesians 6:13-14)
The tests from the Lord are to equip and protect us. IF the test you are going through does not fulfill this criteria… then do check. The test may not be of the Lord. Regardless… you can still resist and Stand.
