The Water Test
We also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:3-4
Jewelers use “the water test” as one of the surest ways to identify a true diamond. An imitation stone is never as brilliant as a genuine stone, but sometimes the difference can’t be determined with the unaided eye. Jewelers know that a genuine diamond placed in water sparkles brilliantly, whereas the sparkle of the imitation is practically extinguished. That test makes picking the real diamond relatively easy.
By way of analogy, I find that the faith of many people under the water of sorrow or affliction is nothing but an imitation. However, when a true child of God is immersed in a trial, he will shine as brilliantly as ever.
MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : A daily touch of God's grace (Page 303). Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman.
Lessons Learned: Tests are needed to separate the genuine from the fake. The tests that God uses to separate the wheat from the chaff are the trials and tribulations we face in our lives. Those who have genuine faith will remain true to the calling of Christ. They will endure hardships with perseverance. Their perseverance will build up their character and their hope. Many people can manage to suffer through troubling times, but only true Christians will bear all circumstances with contentment and joy, because they have hope and strength that comes from Christ (Phil 4:11-13). Only true believers will delight in affliction, knowing that their resolve and trust brings glory to God.
Applications: When faced with trials and tribulations, maintain your trust in God. Remember that God will never test you beyond your ability to endure (1 Cor 10:13). But when you are tested, give glory to God by demonstrating true faith. Meet hardship and suffering with joy and contentment, knowing that God has ordained it for your own good. Do not grumble, but concentrate on obediently follow God’s word. You can be assured that God will be faithful to you, so you must remain faithful to Him.
Prayer Subjects: Pray for a clear mind to respond properly in faith to God’s tests. Pray for contentment and joy through trials and tribulations. Pray for perseverance, character and hope. Pray that I would demonstrate true faith which brings glory and honor to God.
Listen to this entry
Romans 5:3-4
Jewelers use “the water test” as one of the surest ways to identify a true diamond. An imitation stone is never as brilliant as a genuine stone, but sometimes the difference can’t be determined with the unaided eye. Jewelers know that a genuine diamond placed in water sparkles brilliantly, whereas the sparkle of the imitation is practically extinguished. That test makes picking the real diamond relatively easy.
By way of analogy, I find that the faith of many people under the water of sorrow or affliction is nothing but an imitation. However, when a true child of God is immersed in a trial, he will shine as brilliantly as ever.
MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : A daily touch of God's grace (Page 303). Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman.
Lessons Learned: Tests are needed to separate the genuine from the fake. The tests that God uses to separate the wheat from the chaff are the trials and tribulations we face in our lives. Those who have genuine faith will remain true to the calling of Christ. They will endure hardships with perseverance. Their perseverance will build up their character and their hope. Many people can manage to suffer through troubling times, but only true Christians will bear all circumstances with contentment and joy, because they have hope and strength that comes from Christ (Phil 4:11-13). Only true believers will delight in affliction, knowing that their resolve and trust brings glory to God.
Applications: When faced with trials and tribulations, maintain your trust in God. Remember that God will never test you beyond your ability to endure (1 Cor 10:13). But when you are tested, give glory to God by demonstrating true faith. Meet hardship and suffering with joy and contentment, knowing that God has ordained it for your own good. Do not grumble, but concentrate on obediently follow God’s word. You can be assured that God will be faithful to you, so you must remain faithful to Him.
Prayer Subjects: Pray for a clear mind to respond properly in faith to God’s tests. Pray for contentment and joy through trials and tribulations. Pray for perseverance, character and hope. Pray that I would demonstrate true faith which brings glory and honor to God.
Listen to this entry
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