Daily Devotional
Are you in the crucible of testing?
October 2, 2018
BIBLE MEDITATION:
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. 1 Peter 4:12
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:
Has something bad happened to you and you said, “Oh, what did I do? I must have done something terrible. Otherwise, this wouldn’t have happened!”
And before you knew it, you fell headlong into a pity party of morbid introspection—taking yourself apart piece by piece to see where you went wrong. If you’re like most people, you have.
But have you ever thought that maybe you’ve done absolutely nothing wrong, but God is simply testing your faith? This is an important truth to understand. If you don’t, you may get discouraged. The seeds of doubt and discouragement sprout in the soil of ignorance. Remember, Jesus was tested in all points like as we are, yet without sin. Trials and hardship are a part of life in this fallen world. They aren’t a commentary on your spiritual health. But they will strengthen you, if you lean hard upon Jesus.
So as you face your trial, face it knowing it doesn't mean you’ve done something wrong or are doing something wrong if you're tempted.
ACTION POINT:
Trials and tribulations lead to endurance, and endurance leads to maturity. You see, that's what makes you strong. You grow when you work against pressure. Read Exodus 16 about the testing the Israelites experienced while they were wandering in the desert. It was testing that came from the Lord, and He had a purpose for it in their lives. Do you see an application in your own life?
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
