It's a Matter of the Heart

Trials: You are either coming out of one, in one, or on your way to one. We can experience them on all levels: Nationally (such as the struggling economy), Family (when one member of the family is affected, we are all affected), or personally (for personal growth). Regardless of the trial on any level, God is still God and has a purpose for them. It is up to us to seek Him for the purpose of the trial so that we may receive the understanding and the purpose for which He has sent the trial.

James 1: 2-4 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

When we have understanding through a trial and know the purpose of it, it helps us to endure.

Immature response: “Man! I keep going through stuff—can’t catch a break! When will this end? This is getting on my nerves!” (….complain, complain, complain)

As you become seasoned/matured in the Lord, you will begin to develop strength-- and your strength is in understanding, endurance, perseverance and all that produce good character.

Romans 5:3-5 “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulations produce perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us."

Mature response: “Thank you for this trial Lord, for you have trusted me and counted me worthy to carry this that YOU might be glorified.”
Luke 22: 42 “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.”

Ultimately God’s ongoing question to us is…."Do you trust Me?"

Job 23: 10 “But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.”

Trials are personalized--Job 23:13-14: “But He is unique, and who can make Him change? And whatever His soul desires, that He does. For He performs what is appointed for me."

God knows the specific trial we need to deal with the issue in our heart that He is trying to remove. The nature of some trials begins to repeat themselves, not necessarily the exact same trial, but the nature of it. Through your experiences, and success through them, your faith increases, so that when something like it comes up again, you KNOW that all will be well!

Isaiah 43:1-3 “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

Trust God in your times of trials, He is able to complete the work He started in you, the question is will you let Him?