How can we discern God's tests in our lives today? God’s Purpose in Leaving Tests “These are the nations the LORD left to test all those Israelites who had not experienced any of the wars in Canaan.” (Judges 3:1) Why the Lord Still Tests Today • To reveal what is truly in our hearts (Deuteronomy 8:2) • To train spiritual “muscles” that have never been challenged (Judges 3:2) • To deepen dependence on Him alone (Psalm 20:7) • To produce endurance, maturity, and joy (James 1:2-4) Recognizing a Divine Test Look for moments that… • Expose hidden loyalties: money, relationships, reputation (Matthew 6:24) • Push you beyond past experience or comfort: “new wars” you have never fought • Come immediately after victory or blessing, when vigilance is low (1 Kings 19:1-4) • Force a choice between clear obedience and convenient compromise (Daniel 3:16-18) Common Forms Tests Take 1. Delayed answers to prayer—teaching trust (Psalm 13) 2. Unexpected hardship—refining faith (1 Peter 1:6-7) 3. Sudden opportunity to sin—proving allegiance (Genesis 39:7-9) 4. Leadership responsibility before you feel ready—growing reliance on grace (2 Corinthians 3:5) How to Respond When You Sense a Test • Return to Scripture first; let God define reality (Psalm 119:105) • Pray for wisdom without doubting (James 1:5-6) • Seek counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 15:22) • Choose obedience even when results look uncertain (Hebrews 11:8) • Thank God in advance for the good He will bring (Romans 8:28) Fruit Produced Through Faithful Testing • Stronger discernment (Hebrews 5:14) • Credible witness to others (Philippians 1:12-13) • Deeper joy anchored in Christ, not circumstances (Habakkuk 3:17-19) • Preparedness for greater assignments (Luke 16:10) Daily Practices for Discernment • Begin each day in the Word, listening for marching orders • Invite the Spirit to search and reveal motives (Psalm 139:23-24) • Keep short accounts—confess quickly when you stumble (1 John 1:9) • Record God’s past faithfulness; review it when new tests arise (Psalm 77:11-12) • Stay connected to the body of Christ; tests are rarely meant to be taken alone (Hebrews 10:24-25) Encouragement to Hold Fast When God permits tests, He also provides His presence and a way to stand (1 Corinthians 10:13). Like the Israelites, we are not abandoned on the battlefield; we are enrolled in His school of faith, equipped by His Spirit, and assured that every test can become a testimony of His steadfast love. |
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