Tests and Trials

James 1:2-4 ⁽²⁾Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ⁽³⁾because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁽⁴⁾Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (NIV)

The United States Armed Forces has for decades been viewed as one of the most resilient militaries in the world. It is not because of the style of the uniforms or the colors shown on the flag. It is because of the outstanding dedication shown by the men and women, past and present, who took an oath to protect this great country. But they did not just put on a uniform, grab a gun, and then go to war. They had to be trained, tried and tested first in order to ensure that they were equipped for what it would take to be an outstanding soldier. Part of that process was and still is the initial training that takes place in boot camp.

Those who have volunteered to enter the armed forces do so with the knowledge that they may be yelled at, sleep deprived, endure strenuous exercises, and even go without seeing family and friends for an extended period of time, in order to serve the needs of the nation. Despite what few may consider as pure punishment, is seen by the majority of people as honorable and well worthy of recognition. The tests and trials that were encountered during boot camp would prove to be the very makings of a soldier fit for service. 

          This is how the Apostle James says that we should view the tests and trials that come into our lives. We are to look at every one of them as the challenge that will help us to become soldiers fit for God’s kingdom. They help us to develop in character and endurance in order to ensure that we are able to make it for the long haul.

            For every test that come our way, there will be a situation in life to utilize what we learned during the last test. Only after you master the test are you then ready to proceed to the next level in God. You never know how the test will come, but you can be sure that if you passed the last one, God will also help you to be victorious in the next one. Each one moves you a step closer to receiving the eternal reward that has been promised for all who do not quit. Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (NIV) Never allow the devil to make you become discouraged, but hang on in there. The time for your reward is coming.