Consider this: For forty days, Jesus, the very Son of God, endured testing. In fact, the Bible tells us that He was in all points tested or tempted just as we are. Are we above our Master? Perhaps we complain about our trials because we don’t understand the need for them.

Testing builds confidence and reveals weaknesses. Where would we be without testing? Imagine a pilot taking the control of a 747 without first being tested. Imagine taking medication that was not first tested. Testing gives evidence that we have the right skills and education to accomplish a given task. So it is with God. He “test-drives” us to ensure we are ready to accomplish His will in our lives and for His kingdom. Ultimately, He wants a bride (His Church) who has been purified and ready to meet the bridegroom, Jesus Christ.

The English word temptation has its root in Latin and originally meant trials, whether good or bad. Therefore, the word tempt can also mean to test. God will test us in order to bring out the best in us. On the other hand, Satan tempts us in order to bring out the worst in us. God tests in the context of His character and for a specific purpose. For example, the testing of our faith produces godly character traits such as endurance. Every problem we face is an opportunity for our spiritual development—the greater the problem, the greater the potential for building endurance and moral fiber. God tests us to ensure we are ready to overcome when Satan tempts us. Are you ready?

Discuss: What are some positive changes that you think would improve communication between you and your spouse during times of testing? Do you have anything between you that is in need of forgiveness?

Unless there is within us that which is above us,
we shall soon yield to that which is about us.
P. T. FORSYTH (1848–1921)

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