Most emergency systems warn us when it is a test of the system. The recorded voice says, "this is only a test". Growing up in the 70's, I remember the emergency broadcast system running their test through the television. In addition to informing us that it was just a test, it also said, "if this had been an actual emergency, you would have been instructed where to tune in your area for news and official information." This type of testing was used to communicate with the masses in the event of a national emergency.
As sojourners on this earth, we also go through a type of testing which brings about a spiritual transformation within us. God's testing. Jesus told us that life will bring many demanding issues. Through examining the importance of our faith during challenging times, we experience how testing can strengthen our belief. It is our response that matters during the test. Responding in faith knowing something good will come out of it. James 1:3 says, "knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." Patience is good y'all! Repeat it, "it's just a test".
There were others before us who experienced God's testing. We see in Genesis that Abraham was tested. "Now it came to pass after these things that God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.”' (Genesis 22:1) During the test, our response should be as Abraham's, "Here I am"! Abraham is known as the Father of Faith. So, it is not a test of passing or failing. It is a test of faith.
The testing of faith is simply a test of the heart. Proverbs 17:3 says, "'The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the hearts." God wants to know for sure that our heart is with Him. He wants to know that we are not swaddling the fence. God wants us to be all in, even during the tests. Repeat it again, "it's just a test".
Blessings to each of you!
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