“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12
In our walk down this narrow path, we will find ourselves being tested, and going through trials. At times, the lines can feel blurred, and it can be difficult to distinguish when God is testing us and our character, or if we are going through trials.
Regardless of the situation, the word of God promises to turn every situation around for the GOOD of those who love God.
(See Romans 8:28.)
One of the main things to grab ahold of in any situation whether it be testing sent by God or trials and affliction that life bring, is that you have to exercise that muscle of faith and hold STEADFAST. This produces endurance.
There is a POWER and a promise for those who endure to the end.
God uses these situations of testing to shape our character, to produce oil, our unique anointing and He refines us.
James 1: 2-4 says “count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Let’s pause for a moment here, how is your attitude positioned when you find yourself in the midst of a trial?
…I know, me too!
God has a purpose for testing us. God is trying to produce perseverance and endurance in our character. In these times, He is preparing us for kingdom life with Jesus, how to operate in the kingdom of Heaven and His eternal reign.
I love what Derek Prince said, “God is more concerned with our character than our achievements.”
God uses these moments of testing to reveal our character traits that still need to be dealt with. Through every season until we are home with Christ, God will continue to mold us and shape us through various ways until we look, act and talk like Christ.
So, take a moment today and reposition your heart towards God.
Ask the Holy Spirit to bring your heart, character and mind, back into alignment with the Father. Ask him to reveal parts of your character that need to be shaped.
I pray the Lord would refresh you in His presence this week, as you hold steadfast as we wait for the return of our savior holding on to his promise…
“For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”
Hebrew 10:36
xoxo,
Amanda Toro