INESCAPABLE. Reality is unavoidable
if living an abundant life is our serious goal. Truth is inexorably relevant
for understanding and exploring purpose. Purpose is the underpinning premise of
life. And yet, what comes with the territory of truth, purpose, the abundant
life, and reality, is the test.
If we’re alive in Christ — awake in
the Spirit, I mean — then we may say that, even though God does not tempt us,
He does allow life’s circumstances to test us. We can say this is true, because
that’s how life works.
Tests. They’re part of the routine,
run-of-the-mill, ordinary, day-by-day life. They come cloaked in obviousness as
much as they’re often unanticipated. Hindsight sees tests far better than
foresight does.
And what does the test require? The
right response, of course.
Now the apostle Peter had different
things in mind when he wrote this:
“Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned,
those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.”
— 1 Peter 3:16 (NRSV)
But it applies equally the same
regarding tests. If our conscience is clear, and we’re able to see the test for
what it is, then we have the capacity to respond maturely in love rather than
react in the immaturity of fear. When? Importantly, not if, but when.
The test of discipleship is how
well we accept and embrace the presence of tests.
If we can see the tests of life as
the proving ground of our trust, we won’t resent them. We may be blessed with
awareness of tests, and of faith to surrender in the presence of them.
What could be better than
experiencing a test, seeing it for what it is, and responding well? This is the
proving of our faith.
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