Trials and temptations have a divine purpose. James 1: 2-4 say count it all joy, my brethren when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And steadfastness has its full effect that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. It sounds absurd to be joyful in trying times but in Christ Jesus it is possible. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. We are led by the Holy Spirit to discuss why God allows trials and temptations.
When we are consumed by our enticement
We are enticed by our state of comfort which includes our family lives, wealth, power, fame, friends, etc. We therefore fail to prepare for the inevitable “odd” day. We wish God to respect our wishes rather than preparing for his plan for us. James 1:13 says… each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. The unknown tomorrow is not subject to our comfort. We must learn to change our desires which lures and entices us. In trials we may say: LORD, LET YOUR MERCY FIND US.
God knows we are able as overcomers
God allows only challenges which we can overcome because of Christ. 1 Corinthians 10: 13 says no temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your strength, but with the temptation will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. If others overcome their trials, we can also overcome in Christ Jesus.
God has also given us his grace to overcome and when our strength grows weak, he compliments it with his grace. 2 Corinthians 12: 9 says my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Paul did not complain in times of adversity but said in Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. As overcomers in Christ Jesus, we must always say: LORD, LET YOUR GRACE STRENGTHEN US.
When it is time to test our faith in God
God allows trials in order to test our faith in him. It is not a time to destroy us but as a promotion exam. So, the thought of it must excite us rather than to discourage us. 1 Peter 1: 7 says in this you rejoice, though now for a little while you may have to suffer various trials, so that the geniuses of your faith, more precious than gold which though perishable is tested by fire, may rebound to praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 3: 12-14 say now f any one builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay straw each man’s work will become manifest; for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work which any man has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. We must be careful on what we build and how? Our battle readiness must be tested as we journey towards eternity.
The qualification for eternal life is not by wholesale promotion but on individual merit. James 1: 12 says blessed is the man who endures trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love him. We are tested with different exams at different seasons for eternal life. 2 Timothy 2: 5 says an athlete is not crowned unless he completes according to the rules. The rules require us to say when we are tested: LORD, KEEP ME AWAY FROM FALLING.
When we are about missing the way
We sometimes become so content that we begin to lose it with Christ Jesus. Therefore God allows trials to bring us back to God when we realize our inadequacies. Trials show how frail we are and confirms God’s supremacy so we become awoken to the realities of God’s power. Deuteronomy 4: 42 says when you are in tribulation, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, you will return to the LORD your God and obey his voice. When challenges come, we must say: O LORD, HEAL OUR WOUNDS.
Isaiah 55: 7 says let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that he may have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. Times of tribulation are times for prayer and closeness to Jesus Christ. Philippians 4: 6 says have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God. Prayer restores us to God and gives us inner peace. So, in trials let us say: LORD, GIVE US YOUR PEACE IN CHRIST JESUS.
The way of God is righteousness through Christ Jesus our Lord. Proverbs 12: 28 says in the path of righteousness is life, but the way of error leads to death. Psalms 23: 3 says God leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. This is the will of God. Times of challenges are times for spiritual reflection. Therefore during challenges we must say: LORD, SHOW ME THE WAY BACK TO YOU.
God loves us and he will forever be with us. Jesus said in Matthew 28: 20 I am with you always, to the close of the age. Jesus said in John 14: 18 I will not leave you desolate; I will come to you. His name is Emmanuel meaning God with us. We must not panic in trials, God is with us and knows best.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, during trials let us appreciate your purpose for it. Let us always remember that you are in charge for good reasons. Let our faith be anchored in you when the storms rage. Show us your mercy in such times because of your grace and love. See us through that we may win the crown of life when we are tested for your name sake, Amen!!
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