Bible passage: 1 Corinthians 10:13 TPT “We all experience times of testing, which is normal for every human being. But God will be faithful to you. He will screen and filter the severity, nature, and timing of every test or trial you face so that you can bear it. And each test is an opportunity to trust him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously.”
When we go through trials, there is often a temptation to doubt God’s love for us or feel that He has forgotten us. The longer the period of difficulty, the stronger these feelings can become, especially if we perceive God as silent. However, this perception couldn’t be further from the truth. The devil wants us to believe the lie that our trials are evidence that God no longer loves us or that He has forgotten about us. This belief only leads us to withdraw from God, the enemy’s ultimate goal. By successfully distancing us from God, the enemy makes us more susceptible to his attacks, which often manifest as depression and feelings of worthlessness.
The devil then presents sinful behaviours, such as getting drunk, engaging in sexual immorality, and excessive partying, as viable coping mechanisms. However, this is all false, and further drives a wedge between us and God.
It is crucial to understand that the belief that trials are a sign of God deserting us is entirely contrary to the truth. Instead, we must cultivate a habit of consistently seeking God’s words to discover the truth, despite our emotions, as our feelings can often mislead us. In today’s passage, Paul reminds us that God’s intention for trials and tribulations is to help us trust Him more. Additionally, James 1:2-4 teaches us that trials aim to build good character within us, fostering endurance, steadfastness, and patience – all qualities of a mature Christian. Therefore, instead of becoming discouraged when faced with trials, Paul and James encourage us to view them as opportunities for great joy. Trials are not a sign that God has abandoned us. Instead, they signify that God considers us worthy enough to be trained and transformed to become more like Christ (Romans 8:29).
Remember that God will never give you more than you can handle. He tailors our trials according to our level, always providing a solution. As long as we trust Him and follow His guidance, victory is the only outcome.
Today, I encourage you to see your trials as opportunities for growth in your relationship with Christ. Remember that if you are facing a trial, you have reached a stage in your spiritual journey where you can handle it and receive the direction you need from God to overcome that season.
Lastly, refrain from personalising other people’s trials and becoming fearful about whether you can handle them. Chances are, if you genuinely cannot bear a particular trial, you won’t face it. So stay focused on your christian journey and trust that God’s timing and plan for your life are perfect.
