Becoming a Woman of Faith by Cynthia Heald

Author:Cynthia Heald
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: ebook, book
Publisher: HarperChristian Resources
Published: 2010-03-27T00:00:00+00:00

Scripture Memory

Ephesians 6:16 or the verse(s) you chose to strengthen your faith.

CHAPTER 7

THE TESTING OF FAITH

I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.

2 Timothy 4:7NLT

It is the “good fight of faith” and we are to have our faith tested at every round. It is a walk now from one situation to another, with opposition at every turn. Lion’s dens and fiery furnaces and Goliaths will be ever in our pathway. Carnal weapons can never oppose them; it is a fight of faith.1

Buell H. Kazee

Atest is usually given to find out what we know. From a biblical perspective, a test is given to find out what we believe. Tests in school are often stressful, and so it is in life. Trials, tests, and temptations are difficult but necessary tools in the hands of God to strengthen and prove our faith. Because God is sovereign, we endure only what He allows to enter our lives. Because He is loving, His purpose is always to do us good. Understanding that our faith will be tried for our good and for God’s glory will help us perceive testing as an opportunity for growth instead of a fearful threat. “Faith must be tested,” observed Oswald Chambers, “because it can be turned into a personal possession only through conflict . . . Believe steadfastly on Him and all you come up against will develop your faith.”2 How marvelous to be able to say at the end of our lives, as did Paul, “I have kept the faith.”

The Purpose of Testing

1. It is easy to hope that life in this world will be hassle-free. What do these Scriptures tell us to expect?

a. Psalm 34:19

b. John 16:33

c. 2 Timothy 3:10-12

d. 1 Peter 4:12-13

2. Jesus taught that tribulation is part of living in the world. As the Lord’s children who endure these testings, what should be our response to trials, and what is the desired result?

a. Romans 5:1-5

b. Hebrews 10:32-39

c. James 1:2-4

d. 1 Peter 1:3-9

3. Because we are in the world, our faith will be tried. In what area of your life do you feel that God might be testing you to strengthen your faith?

Gold is counted precious among men; faith is precious in the sight of God. Gold perisheth; faith abideth.

The proof of faith is of infinitely greater importance than the proof of gold. Temptations try the Christian’s faith. God tried the faith of Abraham and Job; temptation, resisted and overcome, proves faith to be real and true. And temptation refines faith; temptation borne meekly and patiently purifies faith from the taints which cling about every human character; it helps us to overcome pride and self-confidence and worldliness, and keeps us humble, distrustful of ourselves, trusting only in God. The joy of the Lord, realized amid sorrow, helps the Christian to believe that these trials, so grievous now, will be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.3

B. C. Caffin

The Results of Testing

4. Just as

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