Tested But Trusted

                                                                       
Over the years, I’ve noticed a common pattern among some Christians: when something good happens, they immediately credit it as a blessing from God. But when something bad occurs, their first thought is, “Why would God allow this? I’ve been going to church, serving faithfully — this isn’t fair!”

Thankfully, we have the Word of God to correct our thinking and reveal deeper truths.
One of the clearest biblical examples that challenges this mindset is the book of Job. By the end of chapter 1, Job has lost his livelihood and all of his children. Most of us would ask, “God, what have I done to deserve this?”
But that very question is built on a flawed assumption — the idea that God only blesses those who are obedient, and that hardship is always a sign of His displeasure. That’s simply not true, and Scripture shows us why.

Take a look at Job 1:8:
"And the Lord said unto Satan, ‘Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?’"
Job wasn't suffering because he had sinned. In fact, God was pleased with Job — proud of him, even. His suffering wasn’t punishment; it was part of a greater purpose in a spiritual battle between God and Satan. Satan wanted to prove that God’s people only serve Him when life is good. God allowed Job to be tested — not because He was angry, but because He trusted Job's faith.

Child of God, difficult seasons will come. Life won’t always feel fair or pleasant. When that happens, take the opportunity for honest self-examination. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal anything in your life that might need repentance. But if there’s no unconfessed sin, don’t jump to the conclusion that God is upset with you.
In fact, your trial could be a sign that God trusts your faith and is using your life to display His glory.

So when the storm comes, don’t waste energy accusing God or growing bitter. Instead, focus on passing the test. Keep your heart and eyes fixed on Him. Walk in obedience. If you stumble, repent and receive His grace — then get back up and keep moving forward.
God may allow hardship, not to destroy you, but to refine you and to show the world what real faith looks like.
         Pastor Shane Martin