"When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold."
Job 23:10
School can be a lot of fun for students, that is until the time for taking tests. I remember those days in college when I enjoyed the social life and procrastinated about studying. I also remember staying up into the early hours of the morning trying to prepare at the last moment for a test. Why did I wait so late to get serious about studying? I resolved not to do it that way again, but after the test it was so easy to repeat the same mistake. Then, there was a biology teacher who said, "I like to fail students. Many of you will fail my course." She got my attention. I knew the test was coming. So it is in this life. There are days appointed to test our faith.
Job was reported to be an upright man, but he too had to be tested. His test was severe. We read about it within the 42 chapters of the book of Job. Only in the last chapter do we read that he passed the test. Job is one of those books I have to read the last chapter first. I need that assurance that everything will end well. Through it all, Job's faith was steadfast and true to God. He could not understand what was going on in his life. Yet, he continued to trust God regardless.
Are you undergoing a test of your faith? If not, you will. All of us shall be tested. The faith of God's people has been tested throughout the centuries. The faith which is born of God's Spirit abides the test (1 Cor. 13:13). The test becomes a teacher to instruct us more about God's faithfulness, power and glory. We discover His faithfulness in new experiences. It's much easier to trust God when there is no test. During the test, that same trust is tried as gold in the fire, burning away the impurities in our hearts and lives.
Child of God, be encouraged through the testing of your faith, "knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience, but let patience have its perfect work" (James 1:3-4). God is never trying to fail you. He is perfecting you, as you are taking your test.
Child of God, be encouraged through the testing of your faith, "knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience, but let patience have its perfect work" (James 1:3-4). God is never trying to fail you. He is perfecting you, as you are taking your test.
Father, when we are tested, remind us of Your goodness and faithfulness.
