Test, Bring It On
“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” 1 Peter 4:12-14
Tests, trials, and tribulations; there are many labels you may give it, but these events come into our lives to do a work. Yahweh God sends them, allows them, and uses them for a specific purpose. A test comes to reveal, to challenge, and to expose the very nature and heart of a person. It is in these times a person is transformed from their old ways of thinking, their old lifestyles, and become a new good acceptable believer (Romans 12:2).
But there is one problem; most people do not enjoy being tested. I know I do not. Reflect in your own life, those moments when you were in middle of a test. A chemistry test, an algebra test, or maybe giving your tithe when you just lost your job, a loved one becomes sick, or your friends are pushing you to do something you know is wrong. We all have been there, and those are difficult times. Sometimes, instead of embracing the tests, we run from them.
Consider Abraham in Genesis 22:1-24. Abraham finally received the promise of a son, Isaac, with his wife Sarah. In the middle of a joyous season, God wanted to test Abraham, and commanded him to sacrifice Isaac. I cannot imagine what Abraham must have emotionally dealt with or the turmoil he had to engage. But Abraham chose to embrace this test. He was obedient, and for three days, Abraham traveled with his son, knowing what he was going to do when they arrived at the appointed place.
Through this test, Abraham was transformed from being an impatient man who stepped out of the will of God and had a son in Ishmael into a man of great faith in the Father that was willing to give up his son, Isaac. Abraham became steadfast and grew in faith. So as you start your day, how are you going to face those test, trials or tribulations? I say, bring it on!!!
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4