Every precious thing is tested. So also our faith as it is more precious than refined gold.

Over the centuries God’s people have joyfully suffered for the sake of their faith. Many could consider it as a privilege and rejoiced in that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.

Amidst persecutions, Paul and Barnabas strengthened the believers in Antioch encouraging them to continue in faith and saying “through many tribulations we should enter the kingdom of God.” (Acts 14:22).

God can also permit measured trials in our lives with the intention of refining our character. God allowed a messenger of Satan to torment Paul with the specific purpose of keeping him from being exalted ( 2 Corinthians 12:7). Job also understood this purpose of God  when he said “when He tested me  , I shall come forth as gold” (Job 23:10).

All trials are allowed within God’s overarching safety system. He is  faithful not to allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able to bear, but with the temptation provide a way of escape that we will be able to endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13).

– Abraham Isac