Testing

Being a student, my life seems to often revolve around tests. As a result, I have been meditating over the last several days on the similarities and differences between spiritual and academic testing. In school, testing comes following a period of lectures and studying and is supposed to give an accurate depiction of how much you actually learned. Ideally if you studied hard and knew the material, you will end up with a reward of a good grade. Spiritual testing isn't really all that different. The Holy Spirit is our professor. God's Word is our textbook and we are commanded to "meditate therein day and night." When spiritual testing comes along, we must be prepared. God has given us everything we need to "ace" every test He brings into our lives (I Cor 10:13). Not only that, but every test He gives us is "open book." We must lean on Him and His Word and simply trust Him no matter how hard the test may seem to be. God always knows the end from the beginning and His promises have NEVER failed. Praise God that his reward for passing the test isn't just a grade. He gives us tests so that we may be purified and come forth as gold. God's testing brings forth eternal rewards and we can rest assured even in the midst of trials that He is ultimately working everything for our good and His glory. Not only is God's reward better, but His course material is better too! When we read and meditate on God's Word, we aren't just studying a subject, we are learning of and developing an intimate relationship with the God of eternity!! Lord, may I learn to love You more!