And first, let them be tested; then, if they prove themselves blameless, let them be appointed
1 TIMOTHY 3:10 (CJB)
1 Corinthians 10:13 says — No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it. In todays meditation, we will explore some more tests that we may encounter as believers and how to overcome.
Self-Reliance Test: Genesis 16. Galatians 4:23
This test occurs when we are relying on our own strength and resources rather than God’s Spirit. This can happen when we take matters into our own hands and don’t depend on Gods provision. It could also come when we try to “help God” keep His promises, like Abraham did in Genesis 16. God despises independence in His Sons. Jesus came to model what a true son is. He made statements like “I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. – John 5:30.
How to pass this test: This would mean stripping away things that we put our security in other than God and leaning on Him. This involves plan B to Z. The earlier you understand that the arm of flesh will fail, the less heart ache you will encounter. Just like the woodworker strips a piece of furniture before restoring it, don’t be upset when God puts you through the stripping process. He is simply trying to get rid of any self-assurance that is standing between you and your next level and estate of spiritual leadership and your moving deeper and higher in your walk with God.
Self-Will Test: Luke 22:42-44
My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will (Matthew 26:39).
This test occurs when God asks us to do something contrary to our own wilL Not getting our way is one of the most painful things we go through in life. Whatever it may be that God wants us to do, to lead well and minister well, we must be willing to put God’s will ahead of our own.
Passing this test – means dying to self. It requires a lot of prayer, and a lot of brokenness to bring us to a place where we are continuously pliable and moldable in the hands of God. Like Jesus, we must learn to say not My will, but thine be done. Resolve in your heart that Gods will is best and for His glory is much greater – Hebrews 12:2
Prayer for today: Heavenly Father thank You for Your commitment to make me to fashion me into the image of Your Son Jesus. Teach me from my heart, like Jesus to say "Thy will be done". Help me to loose confidence in myself and make my boast in You alone. Let my confession always be "Lo, I come in the volume of the books as it is written of me. I delight to do Your will O God. Amen
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