He Asked For What??

Great writers of the Bible, and faithful followers of Christ today, share 2 important things in common:

1. They have amazing stories of God's provision and work in their life.

2. They have endured great trials and tests.

Seeing God's hand at work in my own life has been a tremendous blessing, and hearing stories of God's power in the lives of others is nothing short of inspiring. But along with God's provision can come tests. Not quite as welcomed, not quite so pleasant. But a blessing as well.

King David welcomed tests. In fact, he asked God to test him in order to further purify his faith and his relationship with God. 

Test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness. 

(Psalm 26:2-3)

It can be a scary thing to invite God to allow trials and tests into our lives. It's a prayer God is often quick to answer, for the sake of our growth and His glory. The last time I asked God to test me and try me, as David did, I faced pain that I wasn't prepared for. And yet, God was right there. Reminding me of His love, and reassuring me of His intent. The end leads to an intimacy with God, and greater wisdom in Christ.  

Search me, O God, and know my heart; 

try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there 

be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way. (Psalm 139: 23-24)

God is love. He wants the best for us, and He wants our hearts. Closeness with Him won't come without pruning. As He strips us of something we hold close, more room is made for Him to enter in. Even into glimpses of His sweet presence.

Lord, I love the house where you live,
    the place where your glory dwells. (Psalm 26:8)

Jesus faced trials of every kind. And yet, He didn't depend on God's miracles, or even intervene as God Himself to avoid the pain. He endured difficulty, and relied fully on His Father for strength to overcome. All the while, He drew deeper in communion with the Father and ultimately was raised to eternal glory.

We can be confident in blessing as well as trial that God is present and working for our good. This new year, courageously ask God to test your heart. He will answer, and beautiful growth will bloom.

On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God 

to be entrusted with the Gospel. We are not trying to please people 

but God, who tests our hearts. (1 Thessalonians 2:4)