Testing with a Different Purpose

What if God’s perspective on testing is different from yours?

Sometime later God tested Abraham (Genesis 22:1).*

What if Abraham’s trek up the mountain with Isaac wasn’t a simple pass or fail trial?

The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart (Proverbs 17:3).

What if the standards you’re preparing to meet aren’t even on the exam?

It [a man’s work] will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work (1 Corinthians 3:13).

What if God’s measure has nothing to do with acquiring stuff or accomplishing goals?

Could it be that the struggles and trials in your life are more like going to a department store to buy a mattress? Or to a dealership to purchase a car?

You test one brand or model to see if it’s appropriate. You might discover that the mattress is too short or soft, and you leave it behind. The car is difficult to get into or the field of vision is narrow, and you walk away. You go from one to another until you find the best possible fit … at the right price.

But God isn’t limited as we are. He draws those He wants to Himself then molds and refines us according to His will. That’s one of the reasons we call Him the Potter. He doesn’t abandon His chosen ones because we’re not in perfect shape. He can even break us down to heal and remodel us until we’re fit to bring Him glory and enjoy Him forever.

What if God is indeed orchestrating the stretching and hard times in your life to reveal the places you need to grow at the heart level and teach you how to collaborate in the process so that He can bless you and exalt His name? How would your life change?

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:23-24).

How would your life change?
Let’s compare notes.

Taking my thoughts to the throne,
Sandra

*NIV1984, unless otherwise noted

2 comments

  1. Great writing Sandra! I believe our hearts are key and God has a lot to say about them. The lesson I learned that made such a difference in my life was a Bible study on the Ark of the Covenant. God, the Master Craftsman, instructed with such great detail, every item used to build the Ark and the Temple. However, when He started inviting the people to participate, He wanted their heart. The one verse I can remember is from Exodus 25:2 “Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering. You are to receive the offering for me from everyone whose heart prompts them to give.” There are a couple other verses too which God talks about “their heart.” This was a huge life lesson that God is interested in the condition of my heart. It also opened my eyes to people who did have a heart for me and those who didn’t. This realization made life so much better for me. Thanks again!

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