LIFE’S TESTS

Life is full of tests and trials that are meant to strengthen our faith and character. These tests are not punishments from God but rather opportunities for growth and deepening our relationship with Him. They can lead to spiritual maturity and a deeper understanding of God’s ways. Tests can also prepare us for future roles or callings, as well as reveal God’s plan for our lives.

Joseph and Jesus are examples of individuals who faced difficult tests but emerged victorious. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, but he eventually became a powerful ruler in Egypt. Jesus was crucified by the very people He came to save, but His resurrection brought salvation to all who believe in Him.

Life’s tests happen unexpectedly and often take the form of hardships, rejections, betrayals, having to let go of something we hold dear, disappointments, and many other types of difficulties. However, not everyone is able to make it through these tests because they often give up too soon on their journey.

In order to successfully navigate through these tests, we must look beyond the immediate struggles and acknowledge the presence of God in them. Like Jesus, we should patiently and obediently walk with God, trusting that He will not burden us beyond our capacity. Holding grudges or blaming others for the tests we face is counterproductive. Instead, we must forgive without reservation, just as Jesus and Joseph did, because the Father’s tests always yield higher rewards.

Abraham’s test of sacrificing his son Isaac is a beautiful example of enduring trials well. God was pleased with Abraham’s obedience and trust. When we submit to God’s will, even when it is difficult, He knows that we love and trust Him. Our faith should be an absolute submission of our lives to God, allowing Him to direct our paths. We must trust that God’s plans for us are better than our own. Abraham thought that Isaac was meant to live and become a great nation, but God’s will was for Isaac to be sacrificed. Abraham did not question or doubt, but silently obeyed.

We may wonder what we stand to gain from giving up something dear to us. However, the truth is that when we surrender our desires and possessions to God, we never truly lose anything. Instead, we receive back something far more beautiful and fulfilling.

The idea of sacrificing to God is not about losing or depriving ourselves. It is about trusting in Him and recognizing that His ways are higher than ours. God is pleased when we endure trials well and trust Him in difficult times. He watches us with tender love, observing how we obey Him and trust Him. Murmuring and rebellion grieve Him, but He is pleased when we submit to His will, even when it is hard and painful. When He sees our faithfulness, patience, and submission, He knows that we love Him and trust Him.  The only safe thing for us is to let God have His way. Our own plans may lead to harm and darkness, but surrendering our lives to God allows Him to direct us in His perfect will.

Beloved, life’s tests are inevitable, but they are not meant to harm us. They are opportunities for growth and deepening our relationship with God. By enduring trials well and trusting in His provision, we can emerge victorious and experience spiritual maturity.

Remain blessed!

Pastor Jerry Orhue
Senior Pastor, Gracevine Chapel
www.gracevinechapel.org