And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.
1 Timothy 3:10 KJV
Testing is part of the biblical pattern for our development and preparation. All the patriarchs of old and all who were of note in the Kingdom had to undergo some sort of testing before they received honour or were exalted to a place of leadership. While 1 Timothy 3:10 speaks specifically of bishops, the Lord is raising all His sons (male and female) to be kings and priests unto God, Revelations 1:6. Paul said, through much trial and tribulations, we will inherit the Kingdom, Acts 14:22.
Testing means being proven under pressure. 1 peter 1:7 says: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: 1 peter 1:7 (KJV). God does not choose people based on any qualification. He is more concerned with how the individual responds to trials. God wants us to recognize and embrace testing as a vital part of the preparation process. His desire is that we do not despise testing, but rejoice and glory in it, since it is for our glorification, James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5.
God wants you to pass the test of life and He never allows the testing to be greater than the grace He gives you to overcome, 1 Corinthians 10:13. There is a difference between being tested and being tempted. It is important to note that God doesn’t tempt us, as James 1:13 says. However, He tests us to bring out the best in us. This is not because we have done something wrong, but to enable us to reach the fullness of what we are meant to be. Satan on the other hand tempts us to bring out the worst in us and then accuses us afterwards, hence his title, the accuser of the brethren, Revelations 12:10.
In subsequent meditations, we will explore some of the common tests that the Lord takes believers through. Some of which are: the character test, the motive test, the time test, the forgiveness test, the trust test, the vision test, the servant test, the misunderstanding test, the frustration test, the self-reliance test, the self-will test, the love test, the wilderness test, etc. The aim of this would be to know and understand what test you currently are and how to emerge a victor. Testing is a sure part of the Christian journey, yet we have a forerunner who for us has overcome. Hence we can be confident that our trials of faith will indeed end in praise.
Prayer for today: Lord Jesus I thank you for accepting me in the beloved as a son. Going through trials means you consider me as a son and not a bastard since you chastise all sons you receive. I know that though you slay me or pass me through the fire, You will also bring me into a rich place and much glory as I endure your chastening. Give me grace Lord, to endure affliction as a good soldier, that I may be partaker of Your righteousness and glorification.
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