The whole idea of our faith being tested seems so nebulous, doesn't it? Sure, we read about how the "testing of your faith produces patience" (James 1:3 NKJV), but what does that really look like? Many of us don't really know. Or at least, we don't think we do. Read more at Aaron Armstrong.
The whole idea of our faith being tested seems so nebulous, doesn’t it? Sure, we read about how the “testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:3 NKJV), but what does that really look like? Many of us don’t really know. Or at least, we don’t think we do.
What do we think testing is?
There’s something hypothetical about the way many of us view faith and testing. We see it as being related to opposition, persecution, and the need to be bold and unashamed of Christ. And I get that because persecution certainly does qualify as testing. So we might confidently assert what we think we would do if our faith were challenged. We might proactively adorn ourselves with verses like “I am not ashamed of the gospel” (Romans 1:16).
But rarely do we get past this hypothetical view. And then something happens. It might be something that seems insignificant. Or it could be something that throws your life into chaos. Other Christians—including friends—begin acting in ways entirely out of step with the church’s historic witness. A leader who influenced your faith isn’t who you thought he or she was. Your son or daughter rejects your faith—and, with it, you too (or so it seems). The test results come back with the result you hoped it wouldn’t.
Whatever it is, and whenever it happens, you’re left in this position where you’re asking, “Why?” You pray. Fast. Weep. Examine yourself. Seek guidance. Go to counseling. Yet there seems to be no answer.
When your faith is tested
That, more often than not, is what testing really looks like. It is what we see happening in the world right now as forces all around us, even from voices claiming to speak on behalf of Christ, challenge our resolve. And it is the feeling of failure when it seems like everything we tried to do to be a good, godly, and reasonable parent failed. It is what we experience when our bodies fails us, or our security goes away. These are the trials of many kinds that James spoke of (James 1:2)—the trials that are part and parcel with life in this broken world that is subject to futility. Where people’s hearts are enslaved to and warped by sin.
This is what produces patience in us—the kind of patience that produces perseverance. That matures and completes us (James 1:4), making us whole in Christ as we cling ever more fiercely to him.
That doesn’t change the reality that it still hurts because it does. Loss, hardship, grief—it’s all painful. But don’t lose hope. If Christ is your hope, lean on him. Speak the truth. Pursue the good of others. Pray and work for peace. Stand against injustice and evil wherever you see it. Don’t give up on those reject you and who disappoint you.
This is the test, Christian. The Holy Spirit is with you. Christ is for you. Your Father, the Maker of heaven and earth, loves you. God will not abandon you—and he is not disappointed in you. Don’t lose hope.
Photo by Ben White on Unsplash
Read more at Aaron Armstrong.
