Tested

We’ve been tested greatly in the last while. My tests differed from yours, but testing is part of all lives. We are always being tested by medical folks, teachers, and bosses.  A good test establishes quality, performance, and reliability of a person, a product or an action.

And then of course, we face spiritual tests; life situations that God provides to evaluate our character and our obedience. The results help us see our own strengths and failures.

He tests all of us. In Psalm 11:5 the Lord says he tests both the righteous and the wicked.

Job understands testing and determines that God will find him as pure as gold.

(Job 23:10)

Our job is to persevere under trial 

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

(James 1:12, NIV)

And while persevering, to not be afraid!

Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you may not sin.”

(Exodus 2020, NIV)

This is the best outcome of our testing. 

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

(Romans 12:2, NIV)

Let our goal always be to trust God; test positive for faith, while distancing ourselves from doubt and isolating ourselves from fear.