James 1:1-8
Christian testing is necessary for spiritual growth, and James said to count it all joy. Through our trials, we prove we love and obey God, trust Him, and glorify Him. Moses told the Israelites “to remember that the Lord led them forty years in the wilderness to humble and test them, to know what was in their heart, whether they would keep His commandments or not (Deut. 8:2). He humbled them, allowed them to hunger, and fed them with manna that He might make them know that man will not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord” (Deut. 8:3).
When our faith is being tested, it produces patience (v.3). Whatever we are going through, “let patience have its way, doing a thorough work, so that you may be mature and complete in your faith, lacking nothing” (v.4). If you lack wisdom, ask God for it; He will freely give it to all without reproach (v.5). Our heavenly Father never shames us for our shortcomings; He offers to help. Let us ask in faith and do not doubt, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind (v.6). A faithless person need not expect to receive anything from the Lord (v.7); he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways (v.8).
Believers must have wisdom to endure in their trials to produce spiritual maturity.
Clap your hands and give God glory!
3 replies on “The Tests of Believers Result in Spiritual Growth”
Spiritual growth is a process, and every process has multiple steps (i.e., tests). As a proclaimed lifelong learner, I am maturing to humbly, immediately, and obediently trust the creator as He schools me along my Christian journey.
Evangelist Breland- your consistency in keeping us as believers aware of His expectations as well as our ability to maintain a successful and productive walk in Him with His help- is appreciated. Thank you for your faithfulness in sharing.
Sister Queenie,
Thanks for your support and encouragement.