The
testing of your faith produces patience. James 1:3
Every computer printer shipped by a Colorado company is first frozen, then heated to 130
degrees Fahrenheit, and finally shaken violently for a quarter of an hour. This testing is
the final step in a process called "ruggedization," which prepares an ordinary
printer for use by the military. With its circuit boards secured and all components
enclosed in a metal case, the printer is thoroughly tested to make sure it will work on
the battlefield.
If that reminds you of the spiritual ruggedization you're undergoing today, take heart. It
is God Himself, our loving Father, who allows the times of testing to prepare us to serve
Him. When we find ourselves in difficult circumstances, the Bible offers the surprising
instruction to "count it all joy . . . , knowing that the testing of your faith
produces patience" (James 1:2-3).
Through it all, God invites us to ask Him for wisdom. Why? That we might know how to
respond properly to our trials. He gives this wisdom "liberally" to all who ask
(v.5).
If life was like a clean, air-conditioned office, then off-the-shelf Christians would be
adequate to meet the need. But we inhabit a world engulfed in a life-or-death spiritual
battle. As we trust God through the difficult times, we'll become rugged and ready, tested
and prepared for greater usefulness.
-DCM
God has a purpose in our heartaches,
The Savior always knows what's best;
We learn so many precious lessons
In each sorrow, trial, and test.
-Jarvis
God allows adversity into our lives not to break us but to better us.