Is This a Test?       

“But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.” Job 23:10 NLT

Have you experienced deep challenges that caused you to ask yourself, is this a test? I’ve had many, mostly in my retail management career. Things begin to go wrong, slowing me down when I’m approaching a deadline. Projects pile up and the pressure is coming from all sides. Can you relate? Then it’s time to ask the question, is this a test? It may not be, but take it from one who knows, most likely it is, and coming from the Father above.

You might ask, does God test us? Indeed, He does. Does God tempt us? Never! But He does put us to the test. Testing from the Lord is a spiritual check-up that is like our yearly physical check-ups, only they are not scheduled in advance, at least to our knowledge. Knowing when our physical check-ups are due, we look at our weight and make sure we are taking all the medications that are prescribed. Following the doctor’s orders is now a priority until the check-up is over.

We cannot cram for a spiritual check-up as we would for our doctor’s visit, or for studying for an exam which tests our knowledge. We need to always be prepared. The Lord will test us when we least expect it to test our faithfulness and obedience to Him. The test will reveal our attitudes in how we respond. Do we have a Christ-like demeanor? Will others be encouraged in how well we handle the challenge? The purpose in testing us is to make us more like Christ and bringing glory to God.

Testing from God is not always pleasant, but it is an important part in our Christian Walk. When we pass the test, we are better for it. The Lord goes before us, leading the way and preparing us for more challenges ahead. As Job says, “But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.” (Job 23:10 nlt) We are also guaranteed to come out purified by fire in a crucible as gold. So let the testing begin!