My inspiration: When you pass the test

By William King | Email: kingwilliam189@gmail.com | image courtesy: islam21c.com

We all face situations where things are not going our way, someone’s not treating us right. It is easy to get upset, live frustrated, wondering why it is not changing.

Much of what we face in life is a test. You do not really know

what is in you until you are put under pressure. It is easy to have a good attitude when people are being good to you.

How about when it is just the opposite? On the night before Jesus was arrested, tried and crucified, Peter told Jesus, “I will lay down my life for you.” His heart was right and that statement was easy to make in the atmosphere of faith with other disciples at the Passover meal. When he was put under pressure, he denied he knew Jesus three times.

The pressure brings to light weaknesses in our character, areas we need to deal with if we are willing to change, make adjustments, start passing those tests. God will trust us with more of His favour as He did Peter. God does not give up on us when we fail. It is significant that Peter wrote: “Don’t be surprised at the fiery trial that is taking place to test you” (1Peter 4:12).

The purpose of the trial is to test your character and show you what’s in you. Every time someone cuts you off in traffic, gets on your nerves, you are tempted to be jealous, critical, or pay someone back is not a random challenge. That is God testing your quality. That is an opportunity to grow. The problem with failing the test is that you are going to have to keep retaking the test until you pass.

Start passing the test. The next time someone is rude, or leaves you out, just smile and stay in peace. When someone tries to make you feel small, ignore it and move on. You are not who they say you are; you are who God says you are - His masterpiece, crowned with favour. Be happy despite what they are doing.

Jesus says, “No person can take your joy from you” (John 16:22). Make up your mind that you are not going to give it away. It is a test. Do not keep responding the same old way. If you are going to reach your destiny, you have to prove to God that you will stay on the high road. Do the right thing when it is hard.