Devotional 2-28-13

Tests of Faith
Please read 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

The Apostle Paul is most likely well known to all of us. He became a Christian when he witnessed the resurrected Christ on the road to Damascus. He was chosen by Jesus and whether he knew it or not, he was to become the Gospel’s most devoted and passionate messenger. But his life as a Christian would not be easy. And his faith would be tested.

As a new and devout Christian, Paul faced many undertakings as he traveled throughout the Roman Empire. His mission was to recruit new Christians and help them to establish new churches. And when he was apart from them, he wrote letters to give them encouragement, knowledge, and the motivation to continue growing their church and practice their newly found faith.

In the scripture noted above, Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth indicates that he believes things are not going well there. Their suspected misbehavior is certainly in question. Paul, in his concern, is compelled to remind them of the errors and punishment of their ancestors, who made poor and selfish decisions. He tells them that the events of their misguided ancestors happened for a reason, to be an example of the consequences of their own misbehavior. He cautions them not to repeat those actions which brought punishment to their ancestors, and assures them that they will indeed be tested in their efforts to refocus on their mission in Corinth. It was time for them to turn to God.

(Verses 12 and 13) “So if you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall. No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.”

God can bring about change in anyone, to prepare them for what lies before them. He gave Paul what he needed—strength, wisdom and endurance, to carry out his missionary work. But Paul’s faith was tested along the way, as he endured physical hardship, persecution, and danger. Though he was martyred for his faith in Christ by the Romans he knew God had not abandoned him. I

t’s not always easy being a Christian. We are often challenged, as was Paul, and our faith is often tested. But Paul reminds us that God is faithful, and He gives us what we need to do His will. We are able to do what we think we cannot do. We may need to spend time we think we don’t have to better serve those in need. We are given by God the ability to maintain a positive attitude as we face a long and difficult illness. When we think we just can’t do it, we move forward anyway, not knowing what the outcome may be. But we succeed. Whatever the test may be, God will not abandon us, and we will succeed. D

uring this Lenten Season, let us remember the suffering Christ faced for our salvation. Let us renew our commitment, sustain our faith, and spiritually grow to face whatever trials we may encounter, knowing God is with us, no matter what.

Please read Ephesians 3: 14-21 and share Paul’s prayer for spiritual growth.

Diane Feaganes