Walking into work this week, I saw this sign randomly posted on a set of lockers:
(For clarification, this is not outside a classroom that is used regularly, nor close to a classroom where there would be some kind of testing would be going on right now.)
I’ve been wondering who put it up, and why, but honestly, that isn’t relevant. You see, I’m currently walking in the midst of some frustrating circumstances, wondering if I’m understanding God’s direction correctly, and fighting to keep my eyes fixed on where I’m heading instead of what’s happening around me.
For me, this was a reminder to hold fast to my purpose: this is a season of testing and refinement. It is not fun. It is not comfortable. But what is happening is serving to sharpen my focus, dig my roots deeper and deeper into the ground, and return to the Source of my strength (Neh. 8:10, Phil. 4:13).
James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him” (NIV). It may not be easy to immediately recognize when we are under trials and tests–some of us might need a bright pink sign in our faces to drive the point home–but testing develops perseverance, which brings us to maturity and completion (James 1:2-4). It’s uncomfortable but necessary work.
To not face any testing will leave us sleepy and complacent to stay where we are and never grow. A mighty tree that never develops deep roots can still be taken down in a storm. Trials make us dig deep in the soil of our faith.
When the going gets hard, don’t give up. Dig in. Dig deep. Hold your head high and keep moving forward, because this trial will either make you or break you–but you have a choice in the matter. If you lean into God, He will see you through it every time. Persevere through the test, friends. We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength (Phil. 4:13).
Blessings,
~Lynne
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